Pastoral Reflection
In John 21, Jesus makes one of his post-resurrection appearances to the disciples. As they're out on the water fishing, Jesus calls to them. Upon recognizing him, they come to shore to enjoy a meal Jesus had prepared of fish and bread. After eating, Jesus takes the time to talk with Peter. It's the first one-on-one conversation they've had since that fateful Passover meal not so long ago.
Just as Peter had denied Jesus three times the night of his trial, so Jesus comes back to him with three questions. "Peter, do you love me?" The first time he uses the word agape. In essence, Jesus is asking, "Peter, do you feel a sense of obligation towards me?" Peter's response uses the word fileo and could be summed up at "You know you're my closest and dearest friend!"
They go through this a second time: "Peter, do you agape me?" Peter's response, "Lord, you know I fileo you!"
Then, Jesus asks a third time, but this time, Jesus changes his tone and asks Peter, "Peter, do you fileo me?" Peter of course says, "yes" and accepts the call to shepherd Jesus' people.
Jesus creates a safe space for Peter to be vulnerable. Something needs to be said to clear the air, and Peter needs a moment to make things right. Jesus gives him that opportunity, and yet finds a way to also embrace him. He then also entrusts Peter with a call that's going to demand sacrifice.
May we have that kind of authentic and vulnerable relationship with our Savior. May we also experience him as our safe space in the depths of our need for grace. And finally, may we also appropriately respond to Jesus' call on our lives.
Amen
Rev. Dr. Jennifer Bales
Director of Communications
Presbytery of San Jose
