For the love of Him

When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep." John 21:15-17

The context of this conversation has confronted the depths of my soul, once again. Jesus is asking Peter if he loves Him... the kind of agape love. Peter responds the first two times with "Yes Lord! I like you like a brother, I phileo you". The third time, however, Jesus changes tactics: "Peter, do you like me? Do you phileo me?" To which Peter responds "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." And after this, Jesus gives Peter a command.

I'm not gonna dig deep here today, I'll leave that up to you. But here's what I want you to take:

If God were to ask you the same question, how would you respond?
Would you say, "Lord, you know I love you more than life!" or, "Lord, you know you're my buddy. I like you, you're awesome... but when things get tough, I run. Our relationship is conditional!"

Our love should be the basis of our ministry and our work. If you do 'agape' Him, how much are you willing to do for the love of Him?

{^click this quote^}