WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO

Sometimes it is good to revisit a familiar story. Take a moment and do that with me. As you read Jesus’ conversation with Peter take time to notice what Jesus asked. As you do, listen for the Lord to ask you the same question.

• 15 . . . Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
  "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."
  Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
  16 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."
  17 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.
  John 21:15-17 NIV

Three times Jesus asked, “Do you love me?” Lot’s of sermons have been preached about Jesus questioning of Peter. Some point out that Jesus restored Peter in the same way Peter had denied the Lord. Thus regardless of how often we may fail God, Jesus is ready and able to forgive us and restore us to a place by His side. Others draw a contrast between Jesus question “Do you love me (agape)” and Peter’s response, “I love you (phileo).”

All of this is good to think about, but stop and come back to Jesus’ question. “DO YOU LOVE ME?” Jesus did not ask Peter if he loved sheep—literally other Christians. Jesus didn’t ask if Peter loved being in a place of ministry. Jesus didn’t ask if Peter wanted recognition, if he wanted to be needed, if he could teach or preach. Jesus didn’t ask any of these things. Jesus asked, “Do you love me?”

This gives us cause to stop and ask ourselves why we do the things we do. When our motive is simply because of our deep love for the Lord then we can put up with all kinds of problems and difficulties. Children who love their parents don’t mind watching their brothers and sisters. Does our heart overflow with love for God? That will change the motive for everything we do. What do you think?