"Do you love me?" (John 21:17)
Jesus was having breakfast with his disciples after his death and resurrection. As they sat on the beach after breakfast Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me?" Kind of an odd question for a man that had been following Jesus for several years. Peter answered positively and Jesus asked the question again, and then yet again. Peter was hurt. Did Jesus not believe him when he professed his love? Did Jesus think he was lying?
Peter had publicly denied Jesus three times just before his death. Peter had also boastfully professed is "superior" love for Jesus earlier as well. So, Jesus was actually helping Peter and holding him accountable by asking this question three times. Peter could have carried around a lot of guilt and shame regarding these events. Jesus, by publicly calling this question out, gives Peter the opportunity to set things straight. Jesus also adds to the question, "Do you love me, more thank these?" Peter is humbled. Yet, Jesus does not set out to humiliate him. This question gives Peter the chance to undo the wrongdoing he participated in earlier.
It's important for us to see how Jesus handled this situation with Peter. Jesus did judge Peters actions. However, Jesus did not set out to shame him, make him feel guilty, or humiliate him. Jesus wanted to offer Peter the opportunity to make amends for his actions. He did so without many of the tactics we tend to use on others. Jesus wanted to address this with Peter but in a caring way.
Let's let Christ example guide the way for us. We are called to help others along the way. We are held accountable by God, but without humiliation and shame. God loves us simply for being his children. Let us care for others in a similar way. Amen.
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