From Failure to Forgiveness – a John 21 Story
Peter walked along the shore, staring at the vastness of the sea. His heart was heavy with guilt and shame. He had failed the Lord in his most vulnerable time. He had denied him three times. The memory of that night haunted him, and he couldn’t escape the feeling of unworthiness.
As he walked, he saw a figure in the distance. It was the Lord. Peter’s heart leaped with joy and fear. He ran towards him, but his feet felt heavy, and he stumbled on the way.
"Peter, do you love me?" Jesus asked, looking straight into his eyes.
Peter felt a lump in his throat. "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
"Feed my lambs," Jesus replied.
The conversation continued, and Jesus asked him the same question three times. Each time, Peter affirmed his love for the Lord, and each time, Jesus told him to feed his sheep. It was a humbling experience for Peter, who realized that he needed to be forgiven and restored to his position as a disciple.
After the conversation, Peter felt a sense of relief and hope. He knew that he had been forgiven and that the Lord had a purpose for his life. He went on to become a powerful leader in the early church, preaching the gospel and performing miracles in Jesus’ name.
The story of Peter’s failure and restoration is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and mercy. No matter how much we fail, God is always ready to forgive us and restore us to our rightful place. We just need to turn to him with a contrite heart and a willingness to serve him.
In conclusion, John 21:17 says, "He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love me?’ Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ and he said to him, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.’" This verse shows the importance of love and service in our relationship with God. When we love him, we will naturally want to serve him and follow his commands. And when we fail, we can always turn to him for forgiveness and restoration.