Do You Love Me?

Do you love me?

Do you love me?

Do you love me?

I want you to remember what we talked about yesterday and think about it throughout this week. Our gospel reading (John 21:15-19) was about Jesus re-establishing Peter. You know Peter felt horrible about denying Christ three times; therefore Jesus helps to reaffirm Peter’s love by making him confirm his love three times, essentially erasing his betrayal. Remember that Jesus doesn’t do this because He is insecure about Peter’s love, but rather to help Peter know that He is aware of his love.

If Jesus never re-established Peter, Peter would have lived his life full of regret, guilt and shame. Jesus knew that this is no way to live. Jesus couldn’t use Peter if he was constantly stuck in his remorse and sorrow. Therefore, Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me?” Peter’s response was, “Yes!” Jesus knew Peter loved Him.

Jesus is asking you the same question today and if your answer is yes then there is something you need to do: accept His forgiveness. Jesus didn’t go to the cross in order for you to stay stuck in your sin. He didn’t die in order for you to hold on to the guilt of past decisions. He didn’t do all this so you could live with remorse and shame. If you love God, but still hold on to the shame of your past then you are allowing the work of the cross to be in vain. Don’t do that! Don’t allow the work of the cross be for nothing, but allow the humility of the cross stand for something in your life.

“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Gal 6.14a).

Grace & Peace, Marc