Reading: John 21:15-19; Psalm 103:8-14

John 21:15-19

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”

Psalm 103:8-14

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children— with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts. The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.”

Peter denied Jesus three times, then returned to his old life of fishing—defeated, ashamed, disqualified. But Jesus came to him. Notice Jesus didn’t wait for Peter to get his act together; He pursued Peter in his failure. Jesus called him “Simon”—his original name—as if to say, “I’ll take you back to the foundation and rebuild you again.” Three times Peter denied; three times Jesus asked, “Do you love me?” Grace upon grace. Restoration upon restoration. Your failures don’t disqualify you from God’s calling; they become the very place where His grace shines brightest. Jesus reminded Peter that ministry isn’t about personal perfection—it’s about feeding His sheep, caring for others, staying on mission.

Whatever failure haunts you today, hear Jesus calling your name. He’s not done with you yet. Rise up and follow Him again.