One of my favorite things is when I come home from work or a trip and my kids scream with excitement and run to give me a hug.
Man, I pray that lasts forever!
In those moments I know that my children love me for me. Not what I can do for them or because I gave them a gift or granted some request. They genuinely love ME.
I was reminded recently of a question Jesus asked Peter. The question came after Peter denied knowing or even being associated with Jesus.
How painful must that have been? Someone you spent the last 3 years with, was your closest friend, and then they deny even knowing you in your darkest moment.
Peter saw things few others did. He experienced things no one else did (like walking on water). He knew things that weren’t recorded for us to know.
And while Jesus was being betrayed and beaten Peter abandoned Him.
Peter denied any association with Jesus not just once, but three times.
I would like to think I would have responded differently, but I know I wouldn’t have.
After the resurrection, Jesus asks Peter a painful question.
Do you love me?
He asked Peter not just once, but three times.
Do you love me?
I’m sure it must have been painful to hear the question 3 times.
I think Jesus is still asking this question to you and me.
Do you love me?
Not do you love singing about me.
Not do you love studying about me.
Not do you love serving the poor.
Not do you love leading.
Not do you love teaching.
Not do you love what I can do for you.
Not do you love the gifts I have given you.
Do you love ME?
Only you and Jesus know the answer.
And that answer is at the heart of everything.
