Read: Matthew 26:30-34, John 21:15-19
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” (John 21:15)
With sadness, I watched her pack up her classroom. Over the years, we worked well together as I volunteered in her elementary room. My teacher friend was heading for a job at the middle school. I longed to go with her, but I was sure there would be no possible way. Three years later, I was overjoyed when she asked me to work with her again in her new classroom.
Shortly after Jesus’s arrest, Peter cursed and swore he’d never met Jesus. Following his third denial, Jesus turned and looked at Peter just as the rooster crowed. The sound reminded Peter of Jesus’s prediction of his betrayal, causing him to walk away and cry bitterly. At that moment, Peter must have thought there would be no way Jesus would ever accept him again. After the resurrection, Jesus surprised him with his love and forgiveness. On a beach around a bonfire, Jesus tenderly asked Peter three times if he loved him, showing his willingness to take Peter back.
Have you ever done something so terrible that you think Jesus will never take you back? The Savior loves us deeply and longs for us to repent and realize his great love for us. If we desire to return, we can be sure that he’ll welcome us back with open arms.
As you pray, thank Jesus that he always takes you back no matter what you’ve done.
About the Author
Steven Laman is a writer and public speaker who has lived with cerebral palsy since his birth in 1970. Steven is a prolific devotional writer for Words of Hope, and the author of three books: My Journey God’s Grace, Strength in Weakness and My Grace Is Sufficient. He also volunteers as a teacher’s aide. He lives with his parents in Iowa.
