Do You Love Me? A Call to Follow and Serve

 "Do You Love Me? A Call to Follow and Serve"

Reflection on John 21:15-19

In this intimate and powerful passage, we find the Risen Jesus in a tender moment with Peter. Three times Jesus asks him, “Do you love me?”—mirroring Peter’s three denials during the Passion. Each question pierces deeper, not to shame Peter, but to restore and commission him.

Jesus does not focus on Peter’s past failure but instead invites him into renewed love and responsibility: “Feed my lambs… Tend my sheep… Feed my sheep.” Love for Jesus is not proven merely by emotion or words, but through care for others—through service, leadership, and sacrifice.

This dialogue reveals the heart of Christian discipleship: love expressed in action. Jesus shows us that healing and mission go hand in hand. He meets Peter not in perfection but in repentance and trust. And then He calls him, “Follow me.”

This invitation is extended to each of us. Despite our failings, Jesus still calls us by name, asking, “Do you love me?” If we do, we are to love His people—especially the lost, the weak, and the broken.

Key Takeaway:
True love for Christ is shown through humble service and faithful following, even in the face of past failures. When we say “yes” to Jesus, He turns our weakness into mission.