Peter's Opportunity to Redeem Himself

John 21:15-17
After breakfast Jesus said to 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.

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."

It was not too long ago that Peter denied Jesus three times. I do not think it is a coincidence that Jesus asked Peter if he loved him three times. Jesus is speaking figuratively in regards to his sheep and his lambs. Jesus referred to himself as the Great Shepherd. Now he was going to be returning to heaven. He is asking Peter to take care of his people and feed them the word of God. It wasn't too much longer after this that Peter gave one of his greatest sermons. Not only is Peter preaching great sermons, he is also healing people and spreading the word. You can read about these events in Acts.

Like Peter, I have messed up in my life and felt shame. But that doesn't mean I have to feel sorry for myself and stop serving the Lord. If I look at Peter's example, it was after he denied Christ and Christ empowered him that he became as great preacher. I know in my life, I am a better Christian now and have tried harder to serve God because it is now I have experienced his mercy in my life.