Day 16: Embrace

So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My lambs.”

John 21:15 (NASB 95)

There are times when we feel like calling it quits. We feel overwhelmed by the weight of our responsibility, our lack of ability, or our failures, and we’re tempted to go back to what’s familiar or easy.

This is how Peter and seven other disciples felt after they had deserted Jesus, completely abandoning their friend and teacher to be tortured and crucified. In their shame, they went back to what they were doing before Jesus entered their lives: fishing on the Sea of Galilee.

Yet Jesus appears to His disciples here after His resurrection. He meets them at the place where He first called them and where they had spent so much time together. Jesus reveals Himself in a very personal way to Peter, repeating a miracle that no fisherman could deny, and then invites all of them to share breakfast with Him.

“God’s pardon, we see, is not so much a transaction, but an embrace.”
-Rev. Simon Holland, Garden Tomb Society of London

In this moment, Peter has a new opportunity to renew his love for Jesus.

Can you recall a time when you’ve failed a friend?

Perhaps a time when you’ve disappointed God? Have you spoken to Him about this? Have you sought reconciliation with Him?

Listen to Jesus as He asks, “Do you love me?”

What is your answer? Reply to Him in your own words.

Jesus still had a mission and calling for Peter’s life: Tend my lambs. He still has a mission for you as well, including the responsibility of sharing the good news of Christ with those who have yet to experience His love. I’ve heard it said, if you’re not dead, God’s not done!

Pray for this reconciliation in the world today.

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Day 15: Breakfast

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Day 17: Shema