Do you love me?

Our church just completed a series of services this week called "Renewal". I do not believe attending such services will create a renewal within me, but I do believe seeking the Lord in each of the services provides the opportunity for spiritual renewal.

Our executive director, Dr. David Johnson concluded our services yesterday. In his message, David referenced the restoration of Peter.

John 21:15-17 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." 16 He said to him a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." 17 He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep."

As many times as Peter denied Jesus at the night of His trial, Jesus allowed Peter to declare his devotion.  Isn't that just like a loving Father who desires our reconciliation? However, we still have the responsibility to express our devotion. Do YOU love the Lord Jesus? How? Frankly, words do not get it. A declaration of love is rather hollow unless you speak the love language of the recipient. God tells us His love language throughout Scripture - it is obedience.

Do YOU love the Lord Jesus?

...then confess your sins.
...then repent of your sins.
...then surrender control to Him.
...then read His Word.
...then DO His Word.
...then pray.
...then do not give up meeting together.
...then do not be divisive.
...then do not be a gossip.
...then love the church.
...then love His people.
...then love the lost.
...then share the Gospel.
...then honor Him in your daily life.

Do YOU love the Lord Jesus?

He gives you as many opportunities to declare your love as you have denied Him. It is your responsibility to declare you love in the language the Lord receives. Show Him.