After a couple of days being out of it, thank You, Father, for Your hand in getting us back to feeling better again. There is no match for the Great Physician!
John 21:15-19 (<<click here to read the passage)
One thing that was prevalent in many church services in my youth was testimonies. Sunday night services in particular seemed to be a time where those who had experienced God firsthand working in their lives shared with fellow believers what God had done and how it had changed them. Some were followers of Christ who had experienced this work, but many stories were shared by those who had newly entered the body of Christ. Time and time again we would hear of souls being pulled from the “miry clay” of life – doomed lives changed for lives blessed and graced by God!
I think that is one reason I enjoy attending pastor’s appreciation banquets sponsored by The Gideons (you know, the guys who place Bibles in hotel rooms and many, many other places!) Karen and I try to go every year. And pretty much every year testimonies are heard of individuals whom God changed in so many ways for His glory!
In reading my Life Application Study Bible notes, this sentence spoke to me.
It is one thing to say you love Jesus, but the real test is willingness to serve him.
Putting it mildly, Peter’s faith had been scrambled. He was a dedicated disciple and was emphatically gung-ho for whatever came down the pike – even if it meant death. But ultimately, when it came right down to it, for Peter it meant not death but denial. And without Jesus’ intervention, it’s pretty obvious that Peter would never have gotten over it. It was the worst possible thing he could have done, and he just couldn’t forgive himself.
Three denials, three confirmations of love for Jesus. It may seem a little over the top, and John’s Gospel even expresses Peter’s feelings at the time.
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” v17b
Jesus had always been firm – loving…but firm. And Jesus wanted Peter to get beyond his sin. He wanted Peter to understand that it was more than just saying that he loved Jesus – he had to live out that love in service. Yes, Peter was repentant, but he needed to go up to the next level, he needed to commit his life to Jesus…and he did.
The last portion of the note speaks volumes…for Peter and for us.
Peter’s life changed when he finally realized who Jesus was. His occupation changed from fisherman to evangelist; his identity changed from impetuous to “rock”; and his relationship to Jesus changed – he was forgiven, and he finally understood the significance of Jesus’ words about his death and resurrection.
Lord Jesus, help us to get beyond “just” loving You. Enable us to get beyond the feelings and put our faith into action. May we be open to however You want us to serve You and fulfill the calling to Your Kingdom. May our lives testify to what You have done! Amen.
Nov 21st, 2021, Sun, 7:08 pm
