It does not escape our attention that Peter had denied Jesus three times and now Jesus asks him if he loves him three times. Peter has learned that he cannot pretend with Jesus, so he answers honestly. Each time Jesus asks, Peter is grieved in his spirit (John 21:15-17).
Jesus tells Peter. "tend my lambs", "tend my sheep", and finally "feed my sheep". Jesus is calling Peter out of his self condemnation into a purposeful ministry and a focus on others.
Self condemnation cripples us. We must receive God's forgiveness and refocus away from our failures toward meeting the needs of others. There is no time to wallow in the mire of our self flagellation.
