More than These?

This week I’m finishing the final Bible study assignments in Jennie Allen’s study Proven. The last session dives into John 21, as we join Jesus making his third and final appearance to his disciples before ascending to heaven. The disciples have spent the night fishing but have nothing to show for their efforts when Jesus appears on the shore. He gives instructions as to where to recast their nets, and as they obey, a harvest too big to haul is theirs to gather. They must have relished in the abundance that came from being present with Jesus again. I can almost see the fist pumps and hear them shouting, “He’s back!!”

Interestingly enough this doesn’t seem to be the focus of the passage- this abundance that being present with Jesus and obeying his instructions brings- whether in fishing, feeding the masses, or healing the sick and lame- even though it’s the natural direction of my heart in the story- to the provisions, the answers, the results- the blessings!

It’s the after-breakfast conversation between Jesus and Peter that seems to be important and challenging to me. Jesus asks Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” Peter answers in a way I’d like to think I would have, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” But this is not the end of the conversation. Jesus asks again and then yet one more time, and each time, Peter affirms his love for Jesus.

I find myself relating to Peter when he finally says to Jesus, “Lord you know everything; you know that I love you.”  And Peter is right; Jesus does know everything which in this instance includes the high cost and sacrifice that loving Jesus and following Him beyond this point- feeding his sheep and tending his lambs- will have on Peter. It will take him places he may not want to go; it will require a laser focus that is not easily distracted by the paths of others. If Peter is to be the one on which Jesus will build his church (Matthew 16:18), undeniable love and devotion to Jesus will be the foundational starting point.

This morning, I hear Jesus asking me the same question-

As I follow Jesus along the path and calling he has set for my life, he’s asking, “Do you love me more than these?” And like Peter, I hear the quick response in my spirit answer, “Well you know that I do.”

But still the question persists, and I’m reminded of a weekend conversation with Wally regarding his men’s study- on idols. According to the Authentic Manhood material, an idol is defined as anything that competes with God for your heart’s affection; to it you effortlessly give your time, attention, energy, and money. (Volume 3, p. 23).

I’m reminded of truth that I know – that where my treasure is, there also is my heart,  (Matthew 6:19-24) and I’m convicted of just how quickly my heart wanders to other loves–  to treasures I seek for significance, control, or comfort. Things I give more of my time, attention, energy, or money to than I do God.

And I know some adjustments are needed. If I am to stay the course, fully following Jesus in the things He is calling me to do, then He will have to have my heart- fully, wholly surrendered, and devoted to him.

I’m adding some new PICs to lead me and praying God will use them to change my heart so that I-

Love him most-

Treasure His Kingdom-

And live with an undivided heart.