February 5, 2021 -- John 21:21 -- Fully Engaged

When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?”

John 21:21 English Standard Version

Peter is the disciple I can most relate to in my own life. His mouth is often going before his brain has had a chance to fully engage. Once again this is the case. Peter has just had Jesus restore him—three times Jesus asked Peter—’Do you love Me?” Jesus asked these questions, one time for each of Peter’s previous denials. Then Jesus gave Peter a task, the work evidencing his restoration—”feed my lambs” and twice commanding “feed my sheep.”

And Peter, without even taking time to process what Jesus had spoken to him, saw John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, and asked Jesus “what about him?” Peter no doubt knew Jesus had business with John the beloved disciple as well.

This is why “twitter” is always exploding with this scandal or that gossip—people want to know everyone else’s business. It is easy to think “Me and God, we’ve got this…now, what about that person or look at the antics of her life!” Your life and your own heart and the purpose for which you have been restored laid are out before you—engage in the task Jesus has given you.

Give thanks to God the Father for the great salvation given to you in Christ Jesus the Savior-King! This is your life’s greatest purpose—offering thanks and praise, honour and worship poured out to God—Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Ask the Spirit of God to renew you in holy zeal so that you will live up to the purpose and task for which the Father has restored you in Christ.

Do what you know is right! Even in Covid times. Even when you are locked down. Write a letter of encouragement. Call a friend who you know needs encouragement. Spend time, focused time with each of your children at home and show them the joyful way of salvation. Study a portion of Scripture you’d always meant to learn. Memorize.

Pray. The government at all levels needs wisdom, needs Christians to rise up and give wise counsel and advice. The world is a mess—Christians are being persecuted in record numbers, and this is neglected by the news media. There are unreached people groups who need the Gospel—pray.

Blessed Father, thank You for the salvation You have so richly given in Jesus Christ! Forgive us, oh, forgive us for all the times we look around and ask “what about him” or “what about her” instead of confessing our own sins. Spirit of the Living God, as You apply the glorious forgiveness of Jesus cause us to rejoice in the extravagant gift of forgiveness and new life which is continually given us in Christ! Mighty God, You have ennobled us in Christ Jesus so that we are sons and daughters of the King Most High, therefore, Spirit of God, strengthen us to live up to our high calling. Amen.

https://youtu.be/j5slD2aSKKY