Loving Jesus

TEXT: Jn. 21:16-17, MORE LESSONS: Rom. 8:35-37

Love that is not expressed is not love at all, both for God and man. This was why Jesus asked Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? v17. Three times Jesus asked this same question either because He wanted to emphasise the point so that it sticks, or because He wasn't getting the right answer He wanted from Peter. Although Peter thought he had answered correctly, Jesus persisted until Peter became agitated and grieved (17). I notice that although Jesus kept giving one response, “Feed my sheep”, what he seemed to be saying is, “Peter”, if you love me, prove it by doing something, “feed my sheep”. Every pastor must hear this; if you love your congregation, do something for them, feed them with God's Word, solid Word, complete Scripture, undiluted. Feed them with everything; don't hide any part of God's Word from them. Whether holiness or giving, restitution or forgiveness, moral virtues or family love, kingdom service or sacrifice, teach all the counsel of the Lord.
That was how Jesus wanted Peter to reciprocate His love for Him; be responsible. If you are loved, you must reciprocate by a responsible act to prove and to express appreciation. When love is one-sided, it stands the risk of weakness and loss. Husbands and wives must reciprocate love be by doing something Friends must express their love one to another, not just by words; there must be evidence in acts. Every type of relationship must make love a part of its purpose and it must be expressed from one to the other.
Above all, our love for God must be expressed. Jesus wanted Peter to prove that he appreciated God's love for him by doing something for His Kingdom. Have you thought why the question was directed only at Peter? He was the appointed rock on which the Church would be built (Matt.16:18), best beneficiary of Jesus ministries among the disciples, especially if you note that thrice Satan attempted to dislodge him from grace (Lk. 22:31; Matt 16:23; Matt. 26:72-60). But in all, he was forgiven and restored. Today, look back a how much God has done for you and ask yourself what you have done in return How much have you done to support His work and people as a prove of your love for Him? How much sacrifice can you make or have you made for your church and pastor, for missionaries and missions for His love's sake? Don't stop at the words, “I love Jesus”, go for the work; reciprocate His love by an act. Lovest me more than these?

PRAYER / ACTION
* Pray that the things of God will be a priority for you in your life.
* Pray that God's great investment in your life will not be a waste.
* Pray that you will be able to reciprocate God's love to you.
* In practical terms, Ask yourself-do you have any physical expression of your love for God in relation to his love for you?
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