Encounters with the Risen Jesus #3
Jesus & Peter
John 21:1-19
Day 1: Facing Our Failures
Bible Verse:
John 21:17 - "The third time he said to him, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, 'Do you love me?' He said, 'Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my sheep.'"
Reflection:
Peter's denial of Jesus was a moment of profound failure, yet Jesus' questioning was not to condemn but to restore. We all have moments where we fall short, but Jesus meets us in our brokenness, offering forgiveness and a renewed purpose. Reflect on areas where you feel you've failed and consider how Jesus might be inviting you to a fresh start.
Prayer:
Lord, I bring my failures and shortcomings before You. Thank You for Your grace and forgiveness. Help me to accept Your love and to step into the new purpose You have for me. Amen.
Day 2: Embracing Forgiveness
Bible Verse:
1 John 1:9 - "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
Reflection:
Forgiveness is a gift that Jesus offers freely. Peter experienced this firsthand, and it transformed his life. When we confess our sins, we open ourselves to the cleansing and renewing work of Christ. Embrace the forgiveness that Jesus offers and let it transform your heart and mind.
Prayer:
Gracious Father, I confess my sins to You and ask for Your forgiveness. Purify my heart and renew my spirit. Help me to live in the freedom of Your grace. Amen.
Day 3: Rediscovering Purpose
Bible Verse:
Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Reflection:
Peter's journey from fisherman to shepherd of Jesus' flock illustrates a profound shift in purpose. God has crafted each of us uniquely for His work. Reflect on how God might be calling you to step out of your comfort zone and into the purpose He has prepared for you.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for creating me with a purpose. Open my eyes to see the good works You have prepared for me. Give me the courage to step into the calling You have for my life. Amen.
Day 4: Following Jesus
Bible Verse:
Matthew 16:24 - "Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'"
Reflection:
Following Jesus requires a willingness to deny ourselves and embrace His path, even when it leads to places we might not choose. Consider what it means to take up your cross daily and follow Jesus, trusting in His presence and guidance.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I choose to follow You, even when the path is difficult. Help me to deny myself and take up my cross, trusting in Your strength and guidance. Lead me in Your ways. Amen.
Day 5: Participating in God's Work
Bible Verse:
Matthew 28:20 - "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Reflection:
Jesus invites us to participate in His work, not as a burden but as a partnership. He promises His presence with us always. Reflect on how you can join in the work God is doing around you, knowing that He is with you every step of the way.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for inviting me to participate in Your work. Help me to see where You are moving and to join in with a willing heart. Thank You for Your promise to be with me always. Amen.
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