St Nicholas

A Reflection From Fr Ron

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This Weeks Readings:

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Acts 9.1- 6

Psalm 30

Revelation 5.6-14

Gospel: John 20:1-19

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Dear Friends,

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THEY KNEW IT WAS THE LORD…John 21: 1-19

This Sunday’s Gospel has Jesus appearing to the disciples who are all together, and, interestingly given that many are fishermen, are unsuccessfully fishing. Jesus (who they don’t recognise in the first instance) calls out to them to throw their nets again, which becomes so full of fish they have trouble hauling the net in.

Back on the shore together, they have breakfast with Jesus. I have never realised just how powerful this scene is, gathered as they are with Jesus around the ‘charcoal fire’. This detail is important given Peter and Jesus’ exchange. Peter had previously denied Jesus three times, warming himself by a charcoal fire.

Now gathered again around another such fire, Peter is asked: ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ The
symbolism is dramatically rich, especially in the way Peter is asked the same question three times – a
slightly embarrassing, perplexing moment. This conversation after breakfast takes the form of a healing:

 

Peter is able to reaffirm his love for Jesus, who in turn confirms Peter in his mission. The notion of fishermen who can’t catch fish seems to add to the feeling of the disciples floundering without the presence of Jesus.
His appearance alters this, and they are instructed to follow him. This is quite an invitation!

Risen Faith and Peace to you.

Fr Ron.​

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