John 21:15-23
Once more he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep” (John 21:17, NLT).
“Do you love me?”
After the third time, it probably sounded like a nagging question. However, Jesus wasn’t asking merely to pump up His own ego; He was digging to find Simon Peter’s deepest convictions.
Love is a word we throw around very lightly these days. But it’s way more than hearts, chocolate and romantic movies. Real love involves commitment, sacrifice and loyalty. And Jesus wanted to know if Simon Peter was all talk or if he was ready to live out the love he’d professed.
Jesus deserved first place in Simon’s life and in his heart, so He continued to drive His point home by asking if Simon really loved Him. Simon, now Peter, wouldn’t be prepared to teach and care for other Christ followers (the sheep) if Jesus wasn’t his first and primary love.
So what about you? Do you love Jesus? Is it just in your head, or does it show in your life? Is He number one or does He get squeezed into the occasional short prayer?
Maybe Jesus is trying to get your attention because He desires your love, your loyalty, your commitment. Let love grow between you and Him. It’s the most amazing love there is.
