The restoration of Peter (3)

"The Lord is truly risen, and he appeared to Simon." Luke 24. 34

"Feed my lambs ... be shepherd of my sheep ... feed my sheep." John 21: 15-17

We saw him the day before yesterday and yesterday : Peter loved his Master and yet he went so far as to deny it publicly. He then wept bitterly, thinking without a doubt, "I am not worthy of Jesus, I have betrayed him, I no longer deserve to be his disciple ; Maybe the Master will never forgive me. "

Nevertheless, when Mary of Magdala announces : "The Lord has been taken from the tomb, and we do not know where it has been put" (John 20: 2), he runs to the tomb and finds it empty. But Jesus can not let his disciple alone face his questions; He meets him face to face. We know nothing of this interview, except what the first verse of the day relates. There are deep experiences that take place in the strictest intimacy between the redeemed and his Lord. This is a secret between Jesus and Peter! This restoration of communion is sufficient for Peter to be with the disciples assembled and "filled with joy when they see the Lord" (John 20:20). After this meeting that restores the personal relationship, it will be necessary to restore Pierre publicly in the service.

A few days later, when he was idle, Pierre tried to resume his former job : "I am going to fish" (John 21: 3). When they return after an unsuccessful fishing night, it is John who first recognizes Jesus, but it is Pierre who throws himself into the water to be more quickly with him. What memories must embrace his heart ! It was near a fire that he had denied his Master, it was near another fire that he was to be fully restored. Three times he had denied Jesus, three times Jesus asks him "do you love me ?" One could say that the loop is closed ! It is over with the boiling, unthinking, presumptuous stone ; His heart lets himself be sounded by the Master and he surrenders to his infinite grace. Jesus concludes this memorable conversation with this word, which also addresses everything redeemed : "You, follow me" (John 21:22).

The restoration is complete, absolute. Peter will become the great apostle who will be able to recommend at the end of his life : "Believe in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Pet. 3:18).

Source (Please the Lord)