John 21:15-25
Reflect
One of the inevitable by-products of friendships/relationships is that we will from time to time hurt or offend one another, whether accidentally or by a deliberate choice. Sadly, sometimes people refuse to make amends. In this passage Peter encounters Jesus, and is eager to see Him; however the words and deeds of Peter’s denial still remain. Peter had abandoned Jesus at His greatest time of need, and no doubt that would haunt him to his dying day if it were not dealt with. Jesus, aware of the need to bring healing to Peter addresses the guilt and shame that would have been lingering from Peter’s denial of Jesus. Jesus doesn’t just brush it under the carpet, He speaks to it straight on. Each denial attended to by a direct question, each answer affirms Peter’s heart for his Lord. Each charge to feed Jesus’ sheep, a restoration of Peter’s calling to represent Christ.
Apply
Forgiveness is a healing balm for broken relationships. We, like Peter, will find ourselves in need of receiving it. And like Jesus, we may find ourselves in a place where we can release someone by dispensing it. May we all recognize that we are recipients of such lavish grace, and as a result extend it to those we encounter.
Pastor Mike
Pray
- Pray for Pastor Lyle, his family and ministry.
- Pray for Eric Peters, Facility Manager; Custodians, Adit Gamble, Stan Goodnough and Anne King; Maintenance, Joe Richards.
- Pray for our Church Board members: Barbara Whidden, Bee Stiansen, Cam Klapstein, Darryl Sparling, Gerhard Hiob, Julie Leverette, Marvin Schneider, Matt Barker, Matt Chute, Mike Pedde, and Nick Mitchell.