Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Jerry Rhinehart:
John 21:15-19 (NIV)
Jesus Reinstates Peter
15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” 16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” 17 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. 18 Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” 19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”
From what did Peter need to be freed?
What did Peter do, or did he need to do, to be freed?
From which of these issues do you most need to be freed? What might you need to do to be freed?
Precious Jesus, I am a sinner. Like Peter, I think I am strong in my dedication to You but in reality, I regularly deny You in so many ways, by my words, actions, my lack of action and pretending that I don’t know You in this sinful society so I don’t stand out. Forgive me, Lord. Help me to be bold and courageous to stand up for You as You stood up for me. Help me to be consistent and transparent and not hide my faith. I know people watch me and I preach about You without saying a word, both good and bad. Help what my actions show others demonstrate Your love. Break my heart for what breaks Your heart. Move me to do what You need to be done. Help me to be sensitive to serve others where Your Spirit leads me and to sacrifice my time and talents where I can serve others in ways that bring glory to You and Your eternal kingdom. Amen