Reflection for the 3rd Sunday of Easter

         When Jesus questioned Peter in such a direct way, he was not trying to make Peter feel guilty.  Jesus questioned Peter because he wanted to show Peter that his love for Jesus was greater than any opposing power that might try to keep him bound in the memory of his failures.  Jesus wanted Peter to see that while he was human and would make mistakes, his love for Jesus could still cover a multitude of human failings.  True, Jesus’ question must have disturbed Peter initially.  But in the end, it actually restored Peter’s faith in himself as a child of God and a chosen apostle of the Lord.  It helped Peter understand that, even in spite of his imperfections, he could still serve Jesus fully.

 

        Today, Jesus asks each of us:  “Do you love me?”  We should welcome this question.  Jesus only longs to burn away the wasted energy of our unbelief with the fire of his love for us — a love that will enkindle an even deeper love for him in our hearts.

 

        Let’s welcome Jesus into our hearts.  Yes, we will make mistakes — we aren’t perfect.  But our love for Jesus can perfect us enough to make our whole lives a witness to him.  As we declare our love to Jesus, he will strengthen us and enable us to take up the work he has called us to do.