Restored by Love: Following the Risen Christ

John 21:1–19

By Dr. John Hill, Editor & CEO

After the resurrection, Jesus appeared again to His disciples, this time by the Sea of Galilee. Peter, along with several others, had returned to what was familiar — fishing. But despite their best efforts through the night, they caught nothing. In the morning light, a man standing on the shore called out to them, telling them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. When they did, they caught so many fish they could hardly haul it in. It was then that John realized, and exclaimed, "It is the Lord!"

How often we, too, return to the familiar when we are uncertain or discouraged. We slip back into old patterns, trying to find comfort in what we know. Yet even there, Jesus meets us. He calls to us from the shore, reminding us that life — true abundance — is found not in our own efforts but in obedience to His voice.

When Peter heard that it was the Lord, he didn’t hesitate. He threw himself into the water and rushed toward Jesus. Peter’s heart, still carrying the heavy memory of his three denials, longed to be near the Savior again. And Jesus, in His tender mercy, welcomed him.

On the shore, Jesus had prepared breakfast — bread and fish — a simple yet profound sign of His care. Before any conversation of restoration, before any correction, Jesus simply provides. He feeds His weary, discouraged followers. He tends to their physical needs as a shepherd tends his sheep. So it is with us: Jesus cares for the whole of who we are, meeting us in our exhaustion and restoring us with His kindness.

After breakfast, Jesus turned to Peter. Three times, He asked, "Do you love Me?" — one question for each denial. Each time, Peter answered, "Yes, Lord, You know that I love You." And each time, Jesus responded with a command: "Feed My lambs," "Tend My sheep," "Feed My sheep."

In this tender exchange, Jesus was not merely forgiving Peter; He was restoring him. He was re-commissioning him for service. The weight of Peter's failure was not the final word. Love was. Jesus was showing Peter — and us — that restoration is possible, that failure is never the end when we are willing to return to Him.

Notice that Jesus did not ask Peter, "Will you try harder?" or "Will you never fail again?" His only question was about love. Because love — not perfection, not performance — is the true mark of a disciple. When we love Jesus, we are drawn back to Him again and again, even after we stumble. And when we love Him, we are called to care for His people.

At the end of their conversation, Jesus gave Peter the same call He had given at the beginning: "Follow Me." Despite Peter’s past mistakes, despite the hard road ahead, Jesus still called him. And He still calls us.

Today, you may feel like Peter — tired, discouraged, aware of your shortcomings. You may wonder if Jesus could still use you, still love you. Take heart. The risen Christ stands on the shore of your life, calling you back to Himself. He has already prepared what you need. His love is greater than your failure. His grace is deeper than your regrets.

All He asks is your heart. Do you love Him? Then hear His invitation afresh: "Follow Me."

There is restoration in Jesus. There is purpose beyond failure. There is grace for every weary heart that longs for Him. May we, like Peter, cast aside every weight and run to the One who calls us beloved.

Peace and hope be with you today. Christ is risen and still calls you by name.