June 2

Feed My Sheep

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalm 125:1-5 | 2 Samuel 19:11-13 | John 21:1-25 | Proverbs 16:16-17

Today’s Scripture Focus:  John 21

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.” Then he said to him, “Follow me!” (John 21:17, 19b NIV).

The Resurrection is a reminder that God is all about second chances. One of the most touching accounts concerning the resurrection is Peter’s encounter with Jesus. Jesus went out of his way to find Peter, knowing that Peter had denied him. He wanted to show grace to him. Underlying Jesus gentle rebuke, Jesus is reinstating Peter to ministry. In essence, Jesus is saying, “I’m giving you a second chance.”

Our failings are not lost on God. From the broken place, we learn to rely on God’s strength rather than our own. With humility, we begin again, with a new understanding of the grace of God. Don’t dwell on the failure. Don’t get stuck on the past.  God is giving you another chance. And if the example of Peter is any indication, the future looks brighter and brighter every day.

Father, thank you for your steadfast love and grace. Thank you for fresh starts and forgiveness. Thank you for your patience with me. Help me now to walk in your grace and strength. Use me for your glory today. Amen.