In John 21, beginning with verse 15, Jesus
asks Peter this soul-stirring question. Using this question as a basis, we can
just imagine a conversation among the disciples of this day, if Jesus were here
now.
"Do you love me?" Jesus asked.
"Lord, I would even die for you, if need be," Bob
answered.
"You may have to die for me some day, Bob."
"Oh, you can count on me, Lord."
"Good, Bob. Can I also count on you to lead the
discussion in Bible class this week?"
"Well, Jesus, I had planned on having the kids and
grandchildren this weekend, and, well, you know, they just don't come to church and I
don't get to see them very often anymore. So ... I may be there, but you'd probably better
get someone else for the class."
"Bob, didn't you just say you loved me?"
"Lord, I told you, I'd even be willing to die for
you," Bob answered.
"But you're going to forsake the assembly."
"Now, Jesus, please understand. I am not forsaking the
assembly. I don't skip services often."
"Well, suppose I ask you to plan the fellowship
gathering for next Sunday evening."
'Lord, you're not going to believe this, but next Sunday is
the once-a-year "Fall Foliage Tour" sponsored by the local newspaper, and we try
to make it every year. I have to 'let my light shine' in the community--that sort of
thing."
"And you are going to die for me, Bob?'
"Yes, Lord. Verily so. But I just hadn't planned on
dying for you next Sunday.