Friday within Easter Octave : 17th April 2020

Today’s Gospel is filled with joy: the large catch of fish, the delight of sharing a meal, but most profoundly, Jesus is alive!

Yet, why did the apostles go fishing? Were they wishing to put aside the new life Jesus had shown them? Were they returning to what was safe and familiar?

Their efforts that night are fruitless. In the morning, when they follow Jesus’ simple suggestion, however, they are blessed beyond belief.

Perhaps it was tempting for the apostles to return to their old way of life. Yet Jesus appears to them, and shares friendship shares his unconditional love with them. Through this love, they are reminded of their real mission: to be fishers of people. The 153 fishes represent the nations in the world at that time — all the      peoples.

In Acts today, we see the leaders seize Peter and John. Even amidst this hardship, however, they cannot stop proclaiming that salvation comes from Jesus. The friendship and love of the Risen Lord have changed the apostles. They have now abandoned their entire nets and are living out their real mission.

Have I ever shared a moment of friendship with Jesus? If so, how did this affect me?

Lord, may I know and live out Your mission for me.