November 7, 2021: Say ‘I Do’

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’” (John 21:15, NIV).

There is a powerful truth that comes through this passage. For reasons not entirely clear, Peter had returned to fishing. In the days after the resurrection, he was an uncertain and insecure individual. What lay ahead, he didn’t know. In denial and cursing Jesus, Peter utterly failed when Jesus needed him most. He may have even thought that his sin and failure eliminated the possibility of ever being used by God again.

I have felt that way more times than I can count. You may feel that way, too, that there are unforgivable sins or failures in your life. But Jesus says to both Peter and all of humanity: “You are forgiven.” There is no need to hide or run. God’s plan for your life still stands, as He calls to you from the shore of your life. He knocks on the door of your heart, and, when you open it, “Do you love me?” is His only question. Notice Jesus doesn’t ask, “Are you sorry?” nor “Will you promise never to do that again?” All He wants to know is if you will give Him your heart, for Jesus knows that when you say, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you,” everything else will fall into place.

So close your eyes. Imagine Jesus lovingly looking deep into your eyes, as He asks you, “Do you love Me?” And may you, with humility, and even tears, respond, “Yes, Lord. I do. I do. I do.”

Father, forgive us for our wayward hearts, and receive the simple declaration of our love for You today. Amen.

John Kent is the pastor of the Simple Way Network church in Pennsylvania.