7th Week of Easter (A) : Friday 26th May 2023

In chapter 21 of John’s Gospel, we see how Peter stood out as the leader of the disciples. He initiated the fishing expedition and was the first to react to the Beloved Disciple’s Statement of recognition:  “It is the Lord.” (John 21: 7).

We recall how Peter had denied Jesus three times during His trial (Jn.18: 17, 25 & 27). Now, on the shores of the Sea of Tiberias, he gave a triple affirmation of his love for Jesus. With this, Jesus conferred on him the pastoral leadership with “Feed my lambs.” (Jn.21:15)

Today Jesus asks us the same question: “Do you love me?” What would our response be?

If our response is “Yes”, then our lives must reveal the love of Jesus to those who are deprived, marginalized and rejected in society. Pope Francis has undoubtedly shown us a good example from his life experiences. This is what Jesus calls us to respond to continue His mission wherever we are now, especially among the least, the lost, and the little in our society.

Through such acts of love, we can experience the joy, peace and hope that Christ promised us. Do we care enough to share such gifts with others?

Together with all who love Jesus in words and actions, we can sing Psalm 102 in today’s Responsorial Psalm.

“Lord, may the Easter joy, peace, and hope draw us closer to You as we share with those who are needy in our society.”