In that unforgettable scene, described in John 21:1-24, Jesus gently drew from one of Simon Peter’s most painful points of failure to show him that the Risen Lord was re-shaping his future. With that soul-stirring question: “Simon, do you love me more than these?  Jesus gave Simon Peter a way to shift his focus from the past to the future.

In his life, as in ours, those competing loyalties were not always easy to recognize. They were often things of value, and they have a significant place [just not 1^st place] in our lives. The “more than these…” for Simon Peter, at the very least included such natural blessings as friends, family, food, fishing, caring for the needs of neighbors and so much more.

When the Master’s calling re-directed Peter’s life, on the Sea of Galilee, he had already seen that the footsteps of Jesus would lead into unexpected hazards that required a new way of thinking.

The bitter agony Peter tasted on that brutal morning when Jesus was taken away, could have paralyzed Peter with fear. So, Jesus broke both fear-barriers and guilt-strongholds with his simple, repeated command: “Feed my sheep.” 

That new “charge” from the lips of the living Lord would carry Peter across the Mediterranean Sea, all the way to Rome where he would lead flocks of Christ-followers with a bold vision and deep compassion.

The post-Resurrection call would require Peter to lead by example, walking away from the worst experiences in life, laying aside his hurts, fears and failures.

Within less than 35 more days, it would be Peter preaching on the Day of Pentecost: “The promise is for you and for your children and all who are afar off….” (Acts 2:39) Multiplied thousands would come to Christ in a few short weeks, as the good news of God’s saving power ignited a blaze of mission advance across the Roman Empire.

The story continues today in both quiet and dramatic ways, as followers of Jesus “taste and see that the Lord is good”!

We embrace His story, in all its splendor as we assemble to worship and welcome the unique expression of God’s gifts in all of our brothers and sisters in Christ. This adventure links us directly to that simple challenge Simon Peter experienced – to leave the bitterness of loss behind and accept Jesus repeating those timeless words: “Follow Me.” (John 21:19b NIV)

Challenge Farm Special Offerings: Funds still needed for the repair and restoration of a kitchen facility on the campus of Challenge Farm are the focus of our Easter season special offering. Many thanks to each of you who gave for the goal of the mini dorm for boys in March and early April. Praise God for that goal being reached. Any amount of an extra offering that you can give [write CF or Challenge Farm on a check or offering envelope] are deeply appreciated. Hundreds of meals are served in that kitchen as students, staff, guests and families find the faith-empowering grace of God leading young people into great learning and practical training opportunities for their future endeavors.

Tithes and Offerings, including missions-offerings or other designated gifts may be placed in the Offering Box on the Connections Table. Many thanks to all for your generous support of Liberty’s vision to bring God’s Kingdom life into every arena of life for the glory of our King. “Thanks be to God for HIS indescribable gift.” (II Corinthians 9:15)