Today’s Gospel from the last chapter of St. John is such a vivid scene that portrays so many hidden truths within it – such a dramatic, post-resurrection story – that it may be worth our while to just linger with it and let it speak to us as we use our imagination. And then raise our questions to him. Imagine Peter and the other disciples labouring throughout hot, steamy night on Sea of Tiberias, only to come up empty. No fish for all that work. Tired and hungry they give up as they approach the shore. How will they feed their families today? It is dawn. QUESTION: When I come up empty, I ………
Standing on the shore Jesus calls: “Have you caught anything to eat?” “Cast your net to the right side of the boat and you will find some.” QUESTION: When I meet an obstacle, I ……….
Can you imagine: they must have been desperate enough to heed the words of a stranger. They reverse their plans and follow his advice. We know the rest: so many fish they were unable to haul in the net. QUESTION: When I hear a different solution being offered, I …….. The disciple whom Jesus loved recognizes the stranger. “It is the Lord!” Peter, always the impulsive one, put his heart out ahead of him and he jumps into the water, without any thought of proper clothing or safety. His only goal to be with Jesus. There areno barriers. QUESTION: When I am confronted with a decision I must make, I …….. Not only does Jesus direct the disciples to their abundant catch, he calmly feeds them as he did so often before his death and resurrection. He greets Peter and the others with a little smile, as he dishes up the fish and the bread. QUESTION: When I have done all that I could do, I ……..
Can we follow our hearts to recognize Jesus in the stranger? Does it take love to reveal the truth? Can we hear what he is telling us? we trust we will be fed?