Follow Me

 John 21: 15-19

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!”

This touching dialog between Jesus and Peter is a reassurance that the love Jesus has for us knows no bounds. Peter's three-fold affirmation of his love for Jesus erases his three-fold denial and prepares him for his leadership role after Pentecost. Jesus knows Peter, his exuberance and his weakness, yet he knows his potential as well, and exhorts him to follow him. Peter's willingness speaks for itself.

How much like Peter are we in our denials, uncertainties and fears? Yet, the same question and  invitation,  command, if you will, are addressed to us.  :Do you  love me?" "Follow me." Can we do it?  A prayer to St. Peter will help.  St. Peter, help me to respond willingly and lovingly to whatever Jesus asks of me. Amen. 

Bro. Rene