Follow Me Forward

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

February 15th Sermon, Day 5

After restoring Peter's identity and renewing his calling, Jesus gave him the same invitation He had given three years earlier: "Follow me." This wasn't just about returning to where they started - it was about moving forward with renewed purpose and deeper understanding.

Grace doesn't just erase the past; it actually sends us forward. Peter's story shows us that we don't have to clean ourselves up first before coming back to Jesus. We don't have to prove we've changed or demonstrate our worthiness. We simply need to respond to His invitation to follow. The beautiful truth is that no matter how far we've wandered, no matter how many times we've failed, Jesus still says, "Follow me." He doesn't say, "Try harder next time" or "Prove you're different." He simply invites us back into relationship and purpose.

Peter's restoration gives hope to anyone who feels defined by their worst moment. Those 2 AM memories, the conversations we wish we could redo, the choices we wish we could undo - they don't have the final word. Jesus specializes in bringing people back when they thought they were completely finished. Your story isn't over. Your failure isn't your finale. Jesus is still calling your name, still extending the invitation: "Follow me."

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

What would it look like for you to accept Jesus' invitation to "follow me" in this season of your life?

Quote No matter how far you've wandered, Jesus still says, follow me.

Prayer

Jesus, thank You that Your grace doesn't just forgive but sends me forward with purpose. Help me hear Your voice saying 'Follow me' and give me courage to step into what You have for me.