Readings: Acts 28:16-20, 30-31; Jn 21:20-25
INTRO:
Today we complete the readings for the Easter season. The readings for this day are drawn from the final verses of Acts and of John's gospel. If the first book of St. Luke, Gospel of Luke is the "journey narrative" of Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem, the second book, Acts of the Apostles is the "journey narrative" of Paul from Jerusalem to Rome.
As Pentecost brings an end to the Easter season we read the final sentences in the Acts and the fourth Gospel, both endings that open up a life-giving future for those who trust in Jesus. We are asked to focus on our commitment to love him. For the times we have failed to focus on our commitment to love him let us ask his forgiveness.
HOMILY: "Focus on your Commitment"
Peter has been given his mandate to shepherd the Lord's flock and been fully rehabilitated after his sad betrayal earlier on. Jesus had told Peter to feed His sheep and to follow Him and even indicated what kind of future Peter will have to face.
But it is still the same old, impetuous Peter. Well after knowing what is in store for him, Peter would certainly like to know what the rest would face, especially the disciple Jesus loved, whether it is out of concern or out of curiosity. Frankly speaking, he is told to mind his own business; it is no concern of his.
If any of you here is a teacher, you would agree with me, when you distribute answer papers, students are more curious or worried how much others have scored that looking at one's own score. Even the one who has scored highest is anxious to know how much behind others are than me!
We adults are worse! Half of our tension and stress is because we are anxious and worried about what others are eating, what others are wearing, what others are driving or what type of house others are staying. Moreover, we are more worried about others' weaknesses than our own sinfulness!
Jesus had to bring Peter back to focus on his commitment to love and the mission that he had received.
"What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me."
Though, of course, we need to be responsible for the wellbeing of our brothers and sisters, our main concern is to focus on where God is calling us and not be too worried about what he expects from others.
And as we prepare for the renewal and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, let us focus on our commitment to love and our mission to love.
Reference:
http://frstephenyim-weekdays.blogspot.in/
http://www.associationofcatholicpriests.ie/2012/05/26th-may-saturday-of-the-7th-week-of-easter/
http://livingspace.sacredspace.ie/E1077G/
Vally Mendonca, S.J.
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