Carlsberg adverts on TV
show two different outcomes
to an awkward social situation.
Outcome A is unpleasant.
Outcome B is nightmarish.

Fortunately in the world of Carlsberg
there’s always an Option C,
something totally off the wall
that transforms a social disaster
into a dream scenario.

One of the stories about Jesus
always left me feeling anxious;
the one where Jesus asked Peter,
three times,
if he loved him.

What on earth would I do
if Jesus asked me
whether I loved Him?
Would I have to explain, haltingly,
that while I found Him amazing
and even irresistible
I didn’t actually love Him?

I could see two possible outcomes
to this difficult situation.
Option A – Jesus would be cross with me.
Option B – Jesus would be deeply hurt.

I never should have underestimated Jesus.
I realise now that, like Carlsberg,
there was always going to be
an Option C,
something along the lines of this –
a smile, a hug and a reassurance
that Jesus loves me
just the way I am
and that loving God
would all be sorted out
in God’s own time.

Lord,
help me to remember
that with Jesus,
just like Carlsberg,
there’s always an Option C!

© Claire Murray