Put yourself in Peter’s place as he crawls up on the beach, soaking wet and standing before Jesus. One of the most difficult places to stand is in the presence of someone you’ve betrayed. Peter’s denial, “I do not know that man,” was still ringing in his ears and as he approached Jesus, probably expecting the worst. Perhaps he’d get a tongue-lashing or maybe the silent treatment.


Instead, Jesus invites Peter and the others to a meal. In Palestinian culture, inviting someone to a meal was a sign of honor. It signified peace and reconciliation. Peter didn’t deserve honor. When his friend and his Lord was being led away to an awful death, Peter lied to save his own skin. But here Jesus invites him to a meal.


Jesus serves breakfast to His betrayer. We are tempted to think that “what goes around comes around,” but Jesus shows us a different way. When we reflect on all the ways we’ve fallen short of what Jesus wants for us, we might come to expect the worst, too. Yet, Jesus is prepared to give us the best: a meal, restoration, Himself.