Eating our own words

First:	Acts 25:13-21
Resp:	Psalm 103:1-2,11-12,19-20
Gospel:	John 21:15-19

John 21:15 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."

We all know Peter denied the Lord three times.  But the words of the Lord here are perhaps more cutting than we might think at first glance.  "Do you love me more than these?"  Peter boasted that he would follow the Lord even if all the others fall away.  He pledged that he would follow him to the death.  Yet, Peter was the one, rather than the others, that publicly denied the Lord before he was even threatened.  He was pretty humbled and embarrassed I am sure. At first it would appear that Peter did not love Jesus more than the others did.

We are often quick to speak big words.  We boast about what we would do if we were in this situation or that one.  We pass judgement on people because they fail to be as bold as we say we will.  But when the time comes, do we really know how we will act?  Rather than boast about how tough or committed we are, we should appreciate the situation a little more, be more aware of our own weakness and humanity, and then we should always seek the help of the Lord.  If we get to bold we may just end up eating our own words.  The Lord gave us himself to eat so that in turn we can feed others.  Let's focus on that instead of pumping up our own pride.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to always remember that I am a mere mortal man and I have weaknesses and fears that get the better of me.  Help me to be strong, but at the same time humble and to always remember to seek your righteousness first.

Amen