Do you love me? ... Feed My sheep (John 21:16)
Jesus promised Peter something that every repentant believer desperately needs, namely, a second chance (Luke 22:31-34). After telling him that Satan would sift him like wheat, Jesus assured Peter that He had prayed that his faith would not fail. Even though Peter insisted that he would not leave Him, Jesus said that Peter would deny Him three times before sunrise. With the hope that Peter would be restored, Jesus commissioned a ministry for him: “When you are converted, strengthen your brethren” (verse 32).
Preacher George Duncan said, “I don't think the pastor recruitment committee in many churches would consider Peter a suitable candidate to pastor a church!” However, Duncan points out that on the day of Pentecost, God had chosen Peter to deliver the greatest sermon in church history. "It seems," Duncan said, "that some Christians carry a message of forgiveness for unbelievers. Unfortunately, there is no message of forgiveness for those who have believed. However, I am happy that God gave that forgiveness!” Because of that forgiveness, a new stage in Peter's ministry began.
Indeed, if you are a repentant believer like Peter, you too can trust that God will give you a second chance. Confess your sin and experience His forgiveness, healing, and restoration (1 John 1:9) --Joanie Yoder
FORGIVENESS FROM GOD
ALWAYS GIVE A SECOND CHANCE
* Take from Daily Reflections