On the Beach with Jesus

While strolling down the beach early in the day, it was calm and peaceful.  The constant lapping of the waves soothes the soul.  Thoughts of Jesus preparing breakfast on the beach for seven of His apostles played over in my mind.

He greatly blessed their nets with multiple fish. 

He met the need of their hunger by feeding them. 

Next He would question Peter.

Three times Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love Me?” – Jesus knew the answer before asking.  Some have suggested maybe to counter the three times Peter had denied Him.  Jesus saw the benefit for Peter to verbalize his devotion to the LORD. 

Three times Peter confirmed His love for Jesus.  Jesus responded to him with statements concerning the care of His flock.  Jesus actions and instructions reassured Peter he had been forgiven and was ready to serve in His name.

In our lifetime, Jesus presents the same questions of devotion to each of us. 

Do you love Me? 

Love your neighbor as yourself & keep my commands.

Will you choose to serve in My kingdom?

Serve one another in love.

Will you share the good news of the gospel?

 Go & make disciples of all nations-baptizing and teaching them.

John 13:35

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples,

 if you love one another.

John 14:15

 If you love me, keep my commands.

John 15:12

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

John 15:17

This is my command: Love each other.

1 John 4:21

And he has given us this command:

Anyone who loves God must also 

love their brother and sister.

A children’s song speaks of “peace like a river, joy like a fountain, love like the ocean.”  Is our love like the ocean?  Deep, constant and powerful.

Majestic, Almighty God,

How magnificent are the creations of Your Hand.  Thank you for the beauty you fashioned throughout the world, it refreshes the soul.  The peace we find in Your Son, Jesus, restores our hope.  Reshape our hearts with the power of Your truth & love like the power of winds & waves reshape the shoreline.  Thank You, Father, for the grace and goodness You extend to us over and over.

In the name of Your Son, Jesus - Amen

Mischelle Oliver, Stephenville