Guilt no more

Peter, one of the key disciples, denied Jesus three times on the same day Jesus was taken to the cross. He'd have felt incredible guilt. The Bible says he wept (see Matthew 26:69-75).

Have a look at John 21:15-17. When Jesus asks Peter if he loves him, he's using the Greek word 'agape' for love. 'Agape' (pronounced ah-gah-pay) means unconditional love, the kind of sacrificial love God has for us. He asks Peter, 'Do you agape me?' twice. Both times, Peter replies: 'I phileo you.' 'Phileo' means love too, but not the unconditional 'agape' kind. 'Phileo' means to be fond of a person. It's about friendship, rather than loving enough to die for another person. The third time, Jesus asks the same question, but uses 'phileo' himself. The third time. Ouch. Peter knows he messed up three times, and it haunts him. He knows he can't return Jesus' unconditional love. But he can offer this 'phileo' love. Jesus comes to Peter's level; he meets him where he's at.

What does this mean for us? We can bring what we have to Jesus, even if we've messed up. He'll meet us at our level. Let's just turn to him, ask for his forgiveness and healing, and offer back the best love we're capable of. Let's not make it a heavy, guilt-ridden thing, but take time to thank and praise him for his love, determining to walk in freedom.



So what now? Live free from guilt. Jesus knows, loves and forgives you.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Come back to me...I will forgive you for being unfaithful.' Jeremiah 3:22 NCV
— SOULFOOD —

1 Sam 4-7, Matt 22:1-14, Ps 17, Pro 16:12-15