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Feed my Lamb

Gospel
John 21:15-19
Feed my lambs, feed my sheep

Jesus showed himself to his disciples, and after they had eaten he said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these others do?’ He answered, ‘Yes Lord, you know I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ A second time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ He replied, ‘Yes, Lord, you know I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Look after my sheep.’ Then he said to him a third time, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was upset that he asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ and said, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.

‘I tell you most solemnly,
when you were young
you put on your own belt
and walked where you liked;
but when you grow old
you will stretch out your hands,
and somebody else will put a belt round you
and take you where you would rather not go.’

In these words he indicated the kind of death by which Peter would give glory to God. After this he said, ‘Follow me.’

Reflection on John 21:15-19 – "Feed My Lambs, Feed My Sheep"

In this tender and profound exchange between Jesus and Peter, we witness a moment of restoration and commissioning. After Peter’s earlier denial, Jesus does not condemn him but instead asks three times, “Do you love me?” Each time Peter affirms his love, Jesus entrusts him with a sacred responsibility: to care for His lambs and sheep. This repetition emphasizes the depth of commitment required to shepherd others in faith.

Jesus’ words remind us that love is not just a feeling but a call to action — to nurture, guide, and protect the vulnerable in our communities. The passage also highlights the cost of discipleship, as Jesus foretells the challenges Peter will face, yet invites him to follow nonetheless.

Question for Reflection:
In what ways am I being called to “feed” and care for others in my community, and how can I respond to that call with love and courage?

Prayer Based on John 21:15-19

Loving Lord,
You call us to love and serve with the same heart You have shown us. Help us to care for those entrusted to us with patience and compassion. When we feel weak or uncertain, remind us of Your steadfast love and the strength You give to follow You faithfully. May we always respond to Your call with open hearts and willing hands.
Amen.


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