“The third time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ He said, ‘Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said, ‘Feed my sheep’ ” (John 21:17).

Peter had denied knowing Jesus in those moments before the crucifixion. His bitter weeping demonstrated the deep grief he had felt. Now, back in the fishing business in Galilee, he saw Jesus again. Jesus had caused a miraculous catch of fish when He first called Peter. He did that again. Peter had denied Jesus beside a charcoal fire. Now Jesus was standing by a charcoal fire. Everything was designed to remind Peter of his initial call and his failure.

Then, Jesus began a conversation in which He asked Peter three times if Peter loved Him. There are two verbs for love in the original language. “Agapao” is the highest form of love and “phileo” is affection. Jesus twice asked if Peter had the highest kind of love. Peter, humbled by his previous denial of Jesus, didn’t go there. He twice responded, “I have affection for you.” Finally, Jesus asked, “Do you have affection for me?” That’s what hurt Peter. He said, “Yes, you know I have affection for you.”

The beauty of this exchange is that each time He asked a question, Jesus reaffirmed Peter’s commission to ministry. It was as though Jesus said, “If you love me I can build on that.” Each of us has had our disappointing breakdowns. Jesus doesn’t toss us aside. What He offered Peter He offers each of us. He can build a restored ministry on our love for Him. It’s never too late to serve Him. He is a God who gives second chances. Actually, make that second, third, fourth….” If we love Him He will use us.