3rd Sunday of Easter Year C - Gospel Reflection


John 21:1-19

Our dear Lord has a way of trying and testing us, sometimes to the point of our own dismay. We catch a glimpse of this when the Apostles do not immediately recognize Jesus from a distance, and again when He questions Peter’s love three times. Jesus tests us each accordingly throughout our walk of life. In fact, the sum of our life on earth is like a test, a refining, a perfecting. And so it should be! If you loved someone very much, and desired all that was good for them, wouldn’t you want them to be capable of receiving that good wholly and entirely? You would hesitate to give it to them if you judged them to be unfit for receiving it; not that the good might be preserved, but out of hope to bestow it at a time that would profit them more. With this in mind, we can better dispose ourselves to accepting these tests and trials, and compose ourselves more worthily in love of our Lord.

On another note, we also get an interesting insight on the Apostles. It is the “disciple whom Jesus loved” that first identifies the figure on the shore, while it is Peter who is the first to eagerly go to Him. Yet, had this beloved disciple not exclaimed Jesus’ presence, Peter would not have so easily perceived Him. Thus, the beloved disciple’s attentiveness was necessary for Peter’s action.

It is important to follow these examples of attentiveness and action, especially when we feel like we have been thrown into some test or trial. Attentiveness both requires and practices that special virtue of patience. Patience then helps us to discern our actions. Then, we are better prepared to carry out our works and services to the Lord, to practice perseverance in our afflictions, and to identify Christ in our lives.

How are you being tested by God in your life right now?

In prior tests, do you feel you passed or failed? How can you use that “grade” to get through your current test?

Who is your life helps you to recognize our Lord’s presence like the “disciple whom Jesus loved” help Peter recognize Him?

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