More Than Once
A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep. John 21:17
My mom used to say when we were misbehaving as kids, “Don’t make me say this more than once!” And often she did need to repeat herself to impress on us how serious she was.
It’s hard to miss the repetition in these verses. Three times Jesus asks essentially the same question. Three times Simon Peter answers in a similar way. Three times Jesus responds with nearly the same command.
“Simon … do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”
“Feed my sheep.”
In this triple exchange between Jesus and Peter, we hear a note of grace. We are reminded that when Jesus was arrested, Peter denied his Lord three times, just as Jesus said he would. Three times Peter disconnected himself from Jesus and claimed he did not know Him. Now, after Jesus’ resurrection, the Lord gives Peter another chance. Three times Jesus gives Peter an opportunity to express his love for Him. And three times, Peter does. Even though Peter uses the word that expresses brotherly love while Jesus uses the word to express sacrificial love – Jesus accepts Peter’s love.
But Jesus gives Peter even more than acceptance. He also gives a command.
Jesus gives Peter the responsibility to graciously tend the sheep of Jesus’ flock. Jesus’ three commands are this: To take care of the people God places in our life.
Of course, the command isn’t only for Peter. It’s for all of us! Jesus says to us today, as a church and as individuals, “Take care of the people I place in your life.”
Loving Shepherd, thank You for being the God of second chances. Help us to embrace the calling You give us to care for the people You love. We pray in Your name. Amen.