By Andrew Williams
John 21:15-17 (NLT): “After breakfast, Jesus asked Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ Peter replied, ‘you know I love you.’ ‘Then feed my lambs,’ Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ ‘Yes, Lord,’ Peter said, ‘you know I love you.’ ‘Then take care of my sheep,’ Jesus said. A third time he asked him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, ‘Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Then feed my sheep.'”
Good morning fellow disciples.
This passage is a profound moment of restoration and commissioning. After Peter’s three denials of Jesus during His trial, Jesus gives Peter the opportunity to reaffirm his love three times. Each time Peter declares his love, Jesus responds with a: “Feed my lambs,” “Take care of my sheep,” and “Feed my sheep.” Jesus is redirecting Peter’s focus from his past failures to the purpose and mission ahead of him.
Through this conversation, we see Jesus’ grace and forgiveness. He doesn’t dwell on Peter’s betrayal but instead reinstates him to a position of leadership and responsibility. This interaction demonstrates that loving Jesus comes with a —to care for and nurture others in His name.
Simon Peter’s story shows us that our love for Jesus must translate into action. Peter, despite his earlier denial, is now entrusted with the care of Jesus’ flock. Jesus doesn’t ask Peter to be perfect; He asks him to love. That love becomes the foundation for Peter’s ministry and leadership in the early church. This is a powerful reminder that no matter how we have failed, Jesus sees beyond our shortcomings and calls us to partner with Him in His work. Like Peter, we are empowered to move forward in faith, knowing that our love for Jesus can be expressed through serving and caring for others.
Today, ask yourself: How can I demonstrate my love for Jesus through my care and service to others? Jesus’ call to Peter—“Feed my sheep”—is also His call to us as His disciples. Redirect your focus from past regrets or fears of inadequacy, and instead focus on loving others as Jesus loves them. Whether it’s through kind words, acts of service, or simply offering support to someone in need, let your love for Jesus flow into action.
Identify one person in your life who needs encouragement, care, or support. Reach out to them in love—whether it’s through a phone call, a thoughtful message, or an act of service. As you care for them, remember that you are answering Jesus’ call to “feed His sheep.”
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for Your grace and forgiveness. Just as You restored Peter, You restore me when I fall short. Help me to redirect my focus to loving You and serving others. Teach me to care for Your sheep, to nurture, encourage, and bless those You place in my life. Let my love for You be evident in my actions. I commit today to live as a faithful disciple, trusting in Your strength and guidance. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
