Feed My Sheep

Bible Reading: John 21:15–23

“Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.’” — John 21:17

After His resurrection, Jesus met His disciples by the Sea of Galilee and shared a meal with them. Then He turned to Peter, the disciple who had denied Him three times, and asked, “Do you love me?” Three times Peter affirmed his love, and three times Jesus entrusted him with a task: “Feed my lambs,” “Take care of my sheep,” and “Feed my sheep.” This was not a public rebuke but a gracious restoration. The Lord who calls His servants does not abandon them when they fail. Instead, He restores, renews, and recommissions them. Peter’s love for Christ was to be expressed not merely in words but in caring for Christ’s people. The same is true for us. Genuine love for Jesus is revealed in a life of service, compassion, and faithfulness.

Peter’s restoration reminds us that God’s call is grounded not in our perfection but in His grace. Peter’s denial did not disqualify him from future usefulness; instead, it became the place where he experienced Christ’s forgiving love most deeply. Christian life is not about achieving great things for God but allowing Jesus to use our inadequacy and failure to shape us into lives marked by grace, love, and obedience. God not only calls us to serve; He provides the forgiveness, healing, and strength needed to fulfill that calling. Our failures may influence our story, but they do not define our future in Christ.

Jesus then spoke about Peter’s future and the cost of discipleship. When Peter turned to compare himself with another disciple, Jesus gently replied, “What is that to you? You follow me.” God calls each person by name and leads each along a unique path. Our task is not to compare our calling with someone else’s but to follow Christ faithfully where He leads. There are sheep to care for, people to love, and a Savior to worship. The God who calls us also provides the grace, strength, and daily bread needed for the journey. Our responsibility is simple: love Christ and follow Him.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for Your grace that restores us when we fail and Your love that never lets us go. Help us to love Christ deeply, serve others faithfully, and follow You without comparison or distraction. 

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.