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Follow Me - Differently

           When Jesus called to Peter and said “Follow me”, Peter’s response was impressive:  “Immediately (he) left (his) nets and followed” (Mark 1:19).   From that point on, Peter made an impact. He was the first to recognize that Jesus was the Son of God (Matthew 16:13-20).  He stayed when others turned their backs and left. (John 6:8/ Mark 14:29).  Peter put his own life on the line by pulling out a sword and fighting to defend Jesus on the night of his arrest (John 18:10).  In every way possible, Peter was one of Christ’s best followers.
            However, in spite of all his effort, Peter ultimately failed.  At Jesus’ sentencing hearing, when Peter was asked if he was one of his followers, he said “no”.  In fact, he said it three separate times (Mark 14:66-72).  When push came to shove, Peter simply ran out of gas.  He could not force himself to do any more.
            Several weeks later, after his death, burial and resurrection, Jesus finds Peter and offers him another chance.  However, this time Jesus puts a condition on it.  Before telling Peter to follow him a second time (John 21:19), he asks, “Do you love me?”  In fact, Jesus asks him three times (John 21:15-17).  I think that is interesting because if I was Jesus I would have asked a different question.  I would have asked, “Do you think that you can do better this time?” or maybe, “Can you try just a little harder?”  At the very least, I would want to know, “Did you learn anything from your mistakes?”  Instead, Jesus asks, “Do you love me?”  Why would Jesus do that? 
            I think Jesus focuses on whether Peter really loves him or not simply because love was the only motivation that would really work!  You see, Peter did great things when he was out to prove how faithful he could be.  However, he would do even greater things if he simply loved Jesus, lived in the strength of his spirit and responded to the opportunities that God provided. 
            In the end, it never was about Peter.  It was never about his strength, his ability, what he could offer or even his commitment.  Rather, it was always about loving Jesus and letting God’s power work through him.  Once Peter had the proper motivation, he never failed again.
            It is still true that great strength makes a great hero, but great love makes a great disciple (Matthew 22:37-40). 

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