Love and Trust Restored

Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church

February 15th Sermon, Day 4

Three times Jesus asked Peter, "Do you love me?" For each denial, there was an opportunity for restoration. But notice what happened after each of Peter's affirmative responses - Jesus entrusted him with caring for His sheep. This reveals something profound: Jesus doesn't just forgive Peter, He trusts him. Many of us believe God can forgive our failures, but we're not sure He still wants us. We think we're disqualified from meaningful service or that we need to prove ourselves worthy again.

But Jesus shows us that restoration includes renewed calling and purpose. Peter's failure didn't disqualify him - it shaped him into someone who could shepherd others with greater compassion and humility. The man who once ran away from Jesus now couldn't get back to Him fast enough. His brokenness became the very thing that prepared him to care for other broken people.

This conversation wasn't about Peter's ability to lead; it was about Jesus' presence with him. When we understand that our calling is based on God's faithfulness rather than our performance, we can step forward with confidence even after failure. Your failure might shape you, but it doesn't disqualify you in God's eyes. If you've failed, you're not finished.

Bible Verse

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.' - John 21:15-17

Reflection Question

In what ways might your past failures actually prepare you to serve others with greater compassion and understanding?

Quote Jesus doesn't just forgive Peter, he trusts him. Which is important because some of us believe God can forgive us. We're just not sure he still wants us.

Prayer

Father, help me believe that You not only forgive me but still trust me with meaningful purpose. Use my failures to shape me into someone who can better serve others.