More Than These?

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?" John 21:15

I wonder if Peter could talk to us today he would say something like this:
"Jesus loved me. His focus was upon me when he went to the cross. He knew then that unless He died for me and atoned for my sin I would never understand how much He loved me. He knew if I understood that, and was willing to trust Him, and accept His love totally, He could accomplish His purpose in me. He knew all about my denials. Why wouldn't he have doubts about my total loyalty? I guess I didn't know just what he was getting at when he started this conversation. What did he mean "these"? I could see His earnestness but I felt a little hurt at his questions. But then I understood! I am now sure he meant do you love me more than "anything" Do I love him more than any persons, any ambitions, any possessions, any talents, any accomplishments, or my occupation as a fisherman, anything! I knew that Jesus, who was the Son of The Living God was saying to me:" Is there any thing or any combination of these things that keep you from giving all your love to Me? I found out on the day of Pentecost that His love in my heart is the Holy fire that cleanses my heart and when it is working through me will build the church and will bring His will to be done on earth as it is in Heaven."

Love,
Howard