On the first Sunday in May, I plan on preaching on that post-resurrection appearance of Jesus in which he gently confronted
Peter because of his denial of Jesus during his trial and death. “Do you love me?” he asked three times. Each time Peter assured Jesus that he did, and Jesus responded, “Feed my lambs,” then “Take care of my sheep,:” then “Feed my sheep.” Whatever lesson you hear in that exchange, surely you cannot miss the fact that Jesus was telling Peter (and us, too) that we bear responsibility to do what we can to nurture the flock of God’s people. These are not times to be careless or neglectful. All around us people (little ones and grown-ups) need encouragement, expressions of love, and acts of kindness.
We are a part of a team of under-shepherds, watching for opportunities to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I know that you already do those things, and it is so encouraging to see. The Apostle Paul was aware of the exhaustion that so easily sets in for those who minister to one another. His word to us was: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Keep up the good work!
Pastor Don
