Tending the Sheep

Today’s Gospel serves as a guide for Christian leadership, emphasizing daily reliance on Christ, care for others, and spiritual restoration. It begins with Jesus providing for his disciples by feeding them, demonstrating the importance of trusting in him for sustenance—both physical and spiritual. Despite having seen Jesus twice before after his resurrection, the disciples fail to recognize him at first, reflecting moments in life when people struggle to acknowledge Christ’s presence.

The disciples, having returned to their old way of life, seem lost and without purpose, fishing in darkness—symbolizing distance from God. Jesus appears to them in their brokenness, offering not only food but also a renewed sense of mission. His interaction with Peter is particularly profound, as Jesus restores him through a series of questions about love, shifting from unconditional "agape" love to brotherly "philo" love. Peter’s responses acknowledge his past failures, yet Jesus still entrusts him with the responsibility to "feed my sheep."

Through this account, believers are reminded that despite human shortcomings, Christ offers forgiveness and restoration. He calls his followers to nurture others, share compassion, and embody his love. Ultimately, Jesus reaffirms Peter’s calling, bringing him full circle to his original commission—"Follow me"—a call extended to all who seek to walk in faith.

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May you be blessed as you worship at home today and in the coming days.

MAY 4 WORSHIP MATERIALS

A link to this, and other, recorded services can be found in Sermons and Devotions. The recording of the 11:00 a.m. indoor service will be available on Sunday afternoon.

NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

A web version is available here. Be sure to check out current Community Service news on the last page. There is a lot of information about ways you can help others right now. And take a look at the Serve page for more opportunities.