Christ Church Daily Devotion Dec 28 2023

Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, feeling ashamed and sorrowful. Jesus asked him three times if he loved him, allowing Peter to break free from guilt. Jesus restored Peter and made him a leader. We all have flaws, but Jesus sees our potential and forgives us. We should forgive others and spread love. Pray for courage to proclaim love and help those in need. Thank God for Jesus. Welcome to Christchurch's Daily Devotion for December 28, 2023. Today, we will be reading from John, chapter 21, verses 15 through 17. 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. Peter had surrendered to the paralyzing fear of standing alone and denied three times that he did not know Jesus. He had told Jesus that he would stick with him until the end, but he didn't. Peter's conscience immediately made him feel ashamed and sorrowful. He wept bitterly. But fortunately, Jesus enabled Peter to break out of the guilt by asking him three times, do you love me? Peter answered every time, Lord, you know that I love you. Jesus then empowered Peter to put his past behind him and walk confidently into the future. Jesus restored him and made him a leader for his kingdom. We all have scratches and dents in our lives due to our falling short. But Jesus sees through all that and focuses on the person we are created to be. He forgives us and uses us to spread the good news of eternal life. In community, we can help each other by forgiving past mistakes and moving on. God delights in our love and our willingness to love and serve others. That is the best gift that we can give. Today's personal worship option, dear God, help us to have the courage to always proclaim your love and your teachings. Open our eyes to see those who need our love and help. Thank you for your son, Jesus. Amen.