January 28, 2010

“Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these? ..”Yes, Master, you know I love you”. Jesus said, “Feed my lambs. He asked a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” “Yes , Master, you know I love you.” Jesus said, “Shepherd my sheep.” Then he said a third time: “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” … Peter was upset … “Master, you know everything there is to know. You’ve got to know that I love you.” … Jesus said, “Feed my sheep …” John 21:15-18 The Message

What would Jesus say to the places in your heart where you’ve failed …”

He could condemn you but He doesn’t. He could demand you make some payment or work harder but He doesn’t. He could give you one more and only one more chance to shape up .. but He doesn’t. What Jesus knows about you more than anything else is that you need to be restored with His love. Isaiah said there were no “limits to the wholeness he brings”. There are no limits in your life with Jesus. He restores you completely unto Himself. He knows this will change  you on the inside … healed by his love … restored in his love … embraced and welcomed with His love. What would you say if He asked you: ________ , do you love me more than these? He’s not asking to embarrass you or belittle you. He’s asking you the real question of wholeness that is only available through Him. Only Jesus can restore those places in you where your love for him has failed him .. denied him .. or even just grown distant. He knows and He’s not shaking His head in disgust. He opening His heart … and pouring the Holy Spirit into the driest and damaged places in your life. It could be deep hidden painful memories .. rusted chains of fear .. or  un-erased guilt and shame. He knows exactly where His love needs to make you whole today. And whole is exactly what Jesus longs for  your life today. Because He knows that as you go out into the world you live in you’ll say: What I have, I give to you in the name of Jesus! Jesus is The Restorer of Lives … with your life .. with those you love .. and those who will cross your path today. Are there any places inside of you that need the wholeness of His love today? It only takes a moment …

” Peter said, “I don’t have a nickel to my name, but what I do have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!”" Acts 3:6 The Message

Ken Chester:Grace-Gripped is sent M-F to Lovers and Restored Lovers of Jesus and friends of Priority One (ken@priorityone.org)