John 21:15-19
When therefore they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter: Simon, son of John, lovest thou me more than these? He saith to him: Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him: Feed my lambs. He saith to him again: Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? He saith to him: yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him: Feed my lambs. He said to him the third time: Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he had said to him the third time: Lovest thou me? And he said to him: Lord, thou knowest all things: thou knowest that I love thee. He said to him: Feed my sheep. Amen, amen, I say to thee, When thou wast younger, thou didst gird thyself and didst walk where thou wouldst. But when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee and lead thee whither thou wouldst not. And this he said, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had said this, he saith to him: Follow me.
After the Resurrection, Jesus restores Peter and entrusts him with the care of His flock. Despite Peter’s earlier failures, Christ offers forgiveness and a renewed mission. This Gospel reminds us that God can use imperfect people for His purposes. Our mistakes do not define us; God’s mercy does. Like Peter, we are invited to respond to Christ’s question, ‘Do you love me?’ with sincere commitment. Love for Jesus is shown through faithful service to others.