The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

TRUE LOVE

Even though the disciples had seen the resurrected Jesus, they did not really know what they were supposed to do next. For three years they had been following Jesus and carrying out his ministry, but now Jesus was not with them on a regular basis. That being the case, it only made sense for the disciples to return to what they knew: fishing.

Peter, in particular, had not seen Jesus for more than a few moments since he had denied knowing him three times in Jesus’ hour of greatest need (Mt 26:69 – 75; Lk 22:54 – 62; Jn 18:15 – 27). Usually when a person knows that they have hurt someone, or done something to wrong someone, they are not eager to see that person. Yet Peter was so confident in Jesus’ love and forgiveness that as soon as he realized it was Jesus standing on the shore, he jumped from the boat and swam to shore so that he could be face to face with his Lord. There Jesus lovingly and gently reinstated his bold disciple and went on to use him greatly for the sake of his kingdom. This story reminds all believers that those who repent of the pain they have caused Jesus and others in the past can have full confidence that his arms of grace are open to all who are willing to run into them.

Jesus, thank you for restoring Peter and using him mightily. Thank you for restoring me, and please use me too. I want to do good things for you. Amen.