Restored and Commissioned
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.' John 21:17
Peter had failed Jesus in one of the most painful ways possible—he denied even knowing Him, not once but three times. And yet, after the resurrection, Jesus doesn’t cast Peter aside. Instead, He meets him on the shore, cooks him breakfast, and gently asks three simple but piercing questions: Do you love me?
Each time Jesus asks, He is peeling back a layer of Peter’s shame. The Greek reveals something even deeper: Jesus uses the word agape—divine, selfless love—while Peter responds with philaeo—brotherly affection. It’s as if Peter, humbled by his failure, doesn’t feel worthy to claim that higher love. Still, Jesus receives him, fully and graciously. He doesn't scold; He restores. And He commissions: Feed my sheep.
This moment is not just about Peter. It’s about all of us who have denied, doubted, or disappointed. Jesus does not disqualify us because of our past. Instead, He invites us into deeper love and renewed purpose. Our wounds don’t exclude us—they often prepare us to care for others with compassion.
Lord, thank You that our failures do not define our future. Restore our hearts, and help us to love You more deeply each day. Use even our brokenness to care for others. Amen.