The Holy Gospel according to John (21:1-14)
Jesus revealed himself again to his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. He revealed himself in this way. Together were Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus,
Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, Zebedee’s sons, and two others of his disciples.
Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We also will come with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
When it was already dawn, Jesus was standing on the shore; but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, have you caught anything to eat?” They answered him, “No.” So he said to them, “Cast the net over the right side of the boat and you will find something.” So they cast it, and were not able to pull it in because of the number of fish. So the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord.” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he tucked in his garment, for he was lightly clad, and jumped into the sea. The other disciples came in the boat, for they were not far from shore, only about a hundred yards, dragging the net with the fish.
When they climbed out on shore, they saw a charcoal fire with fish on it and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you just caught.” So Simon Peter went over and dragged the net ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish. Even though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come, have breakfast.”
And none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they realized it was the Lord. Jesus came over and took the bread and gave it to them,
and in like manner the fish. This was now the third time Jesus was revealed to his disciples after being raised from the dead.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Reflection: The Scripture readings during the Octave of Easter are all about the resurrected Jesus revealing Himself to his disciples. Today’s Gospel is a resurrection story unique to John’s Gospel. Most of the Apostles were fishermen before Jesus called them to follow him. While following Jesus for 3 years, they were fishers of men, not fishermen. After the death of Jesus, they go back to their former way of life, being fishermen. The Apostles fished all night and caught nothing.
Then they heard Jesus as he stood on the lakeshore grilling fish, telling them that they might catch something if they drop their nets on the other side of the boat. So they did as they were told and caught 153 large fish. One interpretation from scriptural scholars over the years have mentioned that “153” stands for the different species of fish in the Sea of Galilee at the time. Simon Peter, in hauling ashore the net full of fish from the sea to Jesus, symbolizes how the mission and message of Jesus and the salvation He was offering is entrusted to the Church, in the care of Peter and the other apostles. That message is that salvation was not just meant for the Jews of his day, but for all people of every generation.
Then Peter heard that it was the Lord and he jumps into the sea to run to him. “It is the Lord” is an experience of Easter joy. Then Jesus revealed himself to Peter and the others by inviting them to breakfast and feeding them. Peter and the others then recognize Jesus.
Before Jesus spoke to them, the Apostles were persistent in their fishing, even though they were not catching any fish. We are also called to be persistent in our prayer and work, trusting that Jesus will bless our efforts with success. God fills us when we are empty, feeds us when we are hungry, and accompanies us when we are in need.
A special note today as we mourn the death of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. Pope Francis’ message to the world during his pontificate was speaking of the mercy and compassion of Jesus. He reached out to the whole world and showed it by his example of praying with Jews, Muslims, and people from every walk of life. Pope Francis exemplified this Gospel.
Action for the Day: In today’s Gospel, we hear how Peter, after recognizing the Lord, jumped into the sea and ran towards Jesus. How has Jesus revealed himself to us? When we recognize Jesus, do we respond by running to him like Peter? Pray for the grace to recognize those moments during our day, and then thank God when we do. Also, say a prayer for the repose of Pope Francis’ soul and for the College of Cardinals that the Holy Spirit guide them as they gather together to select the next Vicar of Christ.
DEACON5 website link: https://deacon5.com/
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Thank you, Deacon Mike. I look forward to your Friday relections. God bless you and Martha and all your family.