Jesus asked: “Simon do you love me more than these?” As we ponder those words, perhaps we are thinking if we really love Jesus. Our immediate answer might be “Yes Jesus we love you.” Then as he goes on to say “more than these” it might raise a question as to how much we love him. Do we love him more than our spouse, child or friend? Can we say, Yes Lord, we love you in spite of the sickness we are experiencing; in spite of the troubles and trials we are going through? Do we love him more than what we think he can do for us? Is our focus on our love for him or the problems we are facing? Jesus knows our hearts, just like he knew Peter’s. He knew that, in spite of the struggles, deep in his heart, Peter loved him. He knows that we love him. Jesus is asking these questions of us not to trip us up, but to get us thinking about the current condition of our hearts. He knows the answer but perhaps we need to remind ourselves of our answer.

PRAYER: Abba Father, may I experience your unending love. Amen.