I imagine Peter was a little apprehensive about seeing his Jesus again. One of the last times he saw Jesus was when He looked at him after the third denial. It gives me chills to imagine “the look” on Christ’s face. The look of sorrow, pain, betrayal, all from the man who said ...“I’ll never forsake you”. That look sent Peter away weeping. What pain, sorrow, and guilt Peter must have felt. Do you think Peter was still carrying some of that guilt when he saw Jesus again, I do. But Christ never mentioned the sin. I believe Jesus had already forgotten and forgiven Peter. Instead Jesus once again serves his beloved disciples by preparing them dinner. What love and tenderness is shown towards them, especially Peter. An example we all should adhere to, showing that same kind of meekness and love to those of us who have sinned, or who have betrayed us.

Ironic isn’t it that Jesus should question Peter three times if he loves Him, (three times Peter denies Christ.) Peter affirms his love three times, quite emphatically the third time he is questioned. Jesus knows Peter’s heart (John 16:30) and Peter knows this. Forgiveness is given and sin is forgotten.

Christ would only give this huge charge, to feed his flock, to someone whom his knows loves Him above all people and all things. How important is this, to actually have so much confidence in a sinner. To give this most important command. If you have ever been in charge of feeding someone who cannot feed themselves, then you know how precise you have to be. Don’t overfeed they might choke or spit it back at you. Feed them too little and they will die.

Peter, as a convicted sinner is forgiven, and then entrusted with Christ’s most valuable treasure on this earth, His flock. We all should be as Peter. Feed the flock, feed them the word of God, feed them love, feed them encouraging words, and feed them forgiveness.