Lectionary: 48
Read: John 21:1-19
Gospel Summary
For the third time since his resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples. It seems that the disciples had returned to their former lives—those they had lived before they left to follow Jesus—because they were fishing in the Sea of Galilee. Jesus stood on the shore and called out to the men in the boat asking if they had caught anything. The disciples replied that they had caught nothing. Jesus then instructed them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. When they did, they had a huge catch of 153 fish. They knew from this sign that it was Jesus on the shore. When they came ashore, Jesus cooked their breakfast of fish. When they finished eating, Jesus asked Peter three times if Peter loved him. This was a great example of reconciliation because the opportunities for Peter to affirm his love of Jesus matched the same number of times he denied knowing him. It was then that Jesus commissioned Peter to care for the sheep in Jesus’ flock.
Reflection for Families
As parents we know a great deal about caring for sheep in the flock. We work long, hard, and diligently to make sure that our children receive the physical, emotional, and spiritual care they require. We are challenged by this Gospel reading to move outside our immediate “flock” and care for all of God’s children. Our own children will learn the essence of this Gospel when they see us reconcile with others and go outside our small worlds to help others.
Bringing the Gospel into Your Family
Jesus invites us to follow him in the ordinary ways of our lives. An example of following Jesus can be seen in the reconciliation that transpired between Jesus and Peter. Out of paper, cut out some fish. On each paper fish invite every family member to put the name of someone they might need to reconcile with during this Easter season. You might even help one another decide on what action you will take.
Discussion Starters
- One time when Jesus “filled my net” was when . . .
- When Jesus asks me, “Do you love me?” I show my love by . . .
- I help take care of Jesus’ sheep by . . .
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