Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Better Together

After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.”  John 21:15-17

For years, I have had a spiritual mentor that has helped me stay on the right track when I was wandering astray.  In fact in many ways, he was keeping me righted even when he did not even realize it.  When I felt that urge to do something that felt wrong, he was there in spirit almost like a voice from God.  He has been instrumental in my life, and when I am distant from him, I feel the difference.  I bring this up not to imply you are doing something wrong.  In fact, my belief is that many of you are doing great things in the name of Christ, and as such can be a mentor for others, which is why I bring this up today.  But what if you or someone is in need of someone?  Yes, God is there for us.  A mentor is not a replacement for God.  Instead, you or they are a reminder of God’s goodness and how He changes lives.  It’s to say we have God’s word as the instruction book, and being or having a mentor can encourage one to reach a higher level of God’s calling and/or help right the ship.  Better yet, you can be that someone who finds their way after being lost.

While there is only one path to God through Jesus Christ, a walk is always easier with someone.  I once wrote on these verses regarding Jesus speaking to Peter.  At first glance, we read it as if Jesus is questioning Peter.  However in reading throughout the book of John, we know Peter loves Jesus, and Jesus is all knowing.  So what is Jesus doing?  He is mentoring Peter.  The other week, I spoke of Jesus washing feet to set the example.  In today’s verse, Jesus is preparing Peter to step forward and lead the disciples and other lost souls to Christ.  ‘Feed’ and ‘Take Care’ are the instructions Jesus Is providing Peter, and Peter would go on to begin the spread of the Gospel after Jesus ascends to Heaven.  Walking with someone either as a mentor or protégé has mutual benefits.  As a mentor, you are serving part of God’s purpose in building others for His will.  As a protégé, you are taking the next step of your own growth becoming more aware of God’s plan for your life.


God is sufficient for all of us, but He did not intend for us to live life alone.  Sharing our faith is part of our mission, but giving guidance to and receiving the advice of others in the name of Christ is always a win for all involved.  We can enhance our walk of faith by reaching out to others either for help or to help.  So do you have a spiritual mentor?  Who can you be more of a guide on God’s glory to?  My prayer is that we are willing to guide or be guided toward a greater understanding of God’s plan for we are always better together.  Amen.

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