I did it.... A chapter a day...I enjoyed it... its been fun... And I think I will continue.
John 21 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible, and its not just because its a fishing story. But I like to imagine the scene ... Jesus is cooking a breakfast of fish over a campfire. I would imagine that some of the guys are busy dealing with the huge catch of fish. And some are attracted to the heat of the fire, and the aroma of fresh cooking fish. But soon all are milling around and eating. When they are done eating, Jesus nonchalantly asks Peter "do you love me more than these?". Jesus motions towards the fish as He asks the question.
Peter likely laughed as he answered, "You know that I love you". I think he laughed because it doesn't seem a serious question. Of course He loved Jesus more than the fish.
Perhaps other conversations are taking place. I think Jesus waited a few minutes. Then... almost as if He hadn't asked, Jesus asked Peter the same question again. And Peters response is identical... but his tone is different. His reply to Jesus is said sincerly this time. There was no laughter as he replied. Peter likely looks at Jesus trying to guage a reaction. But Jesus, wasn't looking at Peter... He was just staring into the dying embers of the fire.
A few minutes later..... Jesus asks the question a 3rd time. Suddenly, Peter remembers that he denied knowing Jesus 3 times. He is hurt thinking that Jesus doesnt believe him. He has already told Jesus twice that he loves Him. Tears start to well up in Peter's eyes. His voice is full of emotion as he replies "Lord, you know all things, you know that I love you."
This was the confession of faith and love that Jesus wanted to hear from Peter. It was said thoughtfully and with commitment. And that is also what Jesus wants to hear from us. Can we say honestly "Lord, you know all things, you KNOW that I love you!"
The following verses contain more of that fascinating conversation Jesus and Peter. There is more to this great story... But I will end it now with that question from Jesus "..(your name), do you love me?"
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Hey there Mr. Passmore.
ReplyDeleteMy answer to your question:
"Lord, I love you, but not perfectly, as You have commanded. I don't love you with my whole heart, mind, & strength. Lord, I confess this sin, & I thank you that because of Your death on the cross in my place, I can be forgiven. I put my faith & trust in You. Thank you, Lord, for showing me what real Love is."
Wordier than I intended, but that's my answer.:)
Lots o' good stuff here. Take care. Big Buddy :)