John adds an “epilogue” to his gospel as one last story, closing the narrative of Jesus’ life while setting up the future for his disciples. Jesus appears again “later” to these seven disciples who appear to have been trying to get back to their “normal” lives as fishermen. Jesus shares yet another lesson with them while at the same time blessing them with an abundant catch of fish.
Peter’s eagerness to see Jesus is unmistakable. This is a man who has seen Jesus on a couple of occasions since he was put to death, but each time may be the last. Peter is also quite aware that just days ago, he had denied he even knew Jesus to some people in the High Priest’s courtyard. Peter’s emotions would have been heightened. I can just picture Peter fording his way through the water as he made his way to shore.
Have you ever imagined what you would do if you saw Jesus standing at a distance? Would you keep your distance, approach with caution, or would you dash as if your life depended on it? I would hope my legs would carry me swiftly and gracefully into Jesus’ arms.
I’ve heard accounts lately of non-believers being visited by Jesus in their dreams. These encounters often offer peace and calm with some guidance or instruction. As I understand from hearing testimonies, there are people coming to faith and leaving their sinful, old lives behind. They describe feeling alive without the shackles of sin holding them captive. Jesus will get our attention any way he can.
With Peter, Jesus pressed the issue of love, wanting Peter to repeat three times that he loved him. Peter was getting a little annoyed for the same question, hoping that Jesus no longer doubted his love and devotion. After being denied three times, I can understand why Jesus would want to drive that point home. It was in this moment that Peter’s confidence in his faith and love was divinely restored.
But beyond the confession of love, which Jesus wants from all of us, there is a command in the form of a simple request that would get Peter thinking about his destiny. Jesus wants us all to feed his lambs, tend to his sheep. Do you think Peter understood what Jesus meant? Peter was a fisherman, not a shepherd. Who are Jesus’ lambs and sheep?
It seems this final lesson is for Peter, and yet we can all be empowered by Jesus’ words to “feed my lambs.” Such an intimate request. Elsewhere, Jesus commands us to make disciples and tell people about him. What better food to share than God’s Word, the Good News about Jesus? That’s the best way I can think of to tend to the needs of others.
With Jesus, each struggle in life or dark hour can be relieved when we’re reminded Jesus is right there with us in our mess. We don’t have to fight the good fight alone. Our lives are held securely in the loving arms of our Savior. That’s how I want to be tended and cared for.
How about you? What more can you be doing to tend Jesus’ sheep?
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, thank you for trusting me to feed your lambs. It is an honor and a privilege to be your child, your student, your hands and feet in this world. Empower me to do the work you have for me. Open the doors you want opened so that I can walk through into your will. Open my eyes so I will see the needs and those who need your care. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
