From Shame to Shepherd
A second resurrection was soon to happen.
Jesus said to them, ‘Come and have breakfast.’ None of the disciples dared ask him, ‘Who are you?’ They knew it was the Lord. (John 21:12)
A shame-filled Simon Peter fiddled in cold sand as he sat beached beside Jesus, enjoying the dawn brekkie.
This Peter who had only a few days ago fervently denied Jesus, now dined with Him again.
Jesus had fed Peter both well and repeatedly for three years. (He was one of Jesus' inner core of three.)
Peter again had taken his fill from Jesus, yet this breakfast was leading to a surprise - the resurrected Jesus would now raise a resurrected Peter.
Soothed by the warming early breeze Peter heard Jesus' thrice repeated command.
As Peter had denied Jesus three times, now Hisforgiving Lord restored him three times.
"...Jesus said, 'feed my sheep.' " (John 21:15, 16 & 17)
Surely Peter had only considered that his breakfast invitation was simply food for him and his friends; an opportunity to renew an old acquaintance and sit with the Master? But unsurprisingly Jesus intended much more. Jesus had fed Peter again, now Peter was to feed others. Peter had moved in restoration from shame to shepherd.
Even when you have let Jesus down, He won't return the favor - He won't let you down.
You may well be chastened by recrimination, but Jesus still loves unto restoration.
Today's Soul Snippet:
"There are two ways to hide from God's love - rebellion and religion." ~ Wayne Jacobsen
Love this SoulSnack - PLEASE don't keep it to yourself? Would you like to subscribe for free SoulSnacks either weekly or each workday?