Posted on 03/21/2009 4:45:58 PM PDT by WhatNot
Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these? " "Yes, Lord," he said, "you knoyv that I love you," Jesus said, "Feed my lambs. "Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me? " He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you. " Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep. "
(John 21:15-16)
The silver morning mist arises from Galilee, as we see Jesus speaking to His disciples after His resurrection. Jesus looks at Peter and three times asks, "Do you love Me more than these?" This is a vital question. This is recorded in the last chapter of the last Gospel and it is the last question our Lord asked during His earthly ministry. What does this haunting and disturbing question mean? Was Jesus pointing to the boats, the fish, the nets, the sea and all the things that make up our material lives? Was He saying, "Do you love Me more than houses, land, bank accounts, things or clothes?" Or was He pointing to the rest of the disciples? Are you in love with Me Peter, or are you just trying to outdo the other apostles? Have you sought your own advantage rather than My glory?
Whatever the question meant, one thing we know for certain: That feeding lambs is the correct answer and proof that we love Him. No other proof will do! Every other response is bogus. Any other answer is treason. Jesus' last question demands an answer! If my answer is yes, then I have no choice but to busy my life with the feeding of His sheep, the spreading of the Gospel and giving encouragement to the weak and the wayward. Conclusion: Either we give this love away or we lose it. If we are not daily sharing this love, then the answer to our Lord's daunting question is "No."
Bump.
Terrific post! Thank you and yes...feeding the lambs the milk and the sheep the meat is vital. As the Holy Spirit feeds us through His Word and the words of the others He teaches...we, in turn, take that message to others.
WhatNot was the poster. ;0)
Thank you for letting me know about my mistake. WhatNot...terrific post!
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