Scripture Reflection - May 4, 2025

Third Sunday of Easter

First Reading: Acts 5: 27-32, 40b-41

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 30: 2 and 4, 5-6, 11-12, 13

Second Reading: Revelation 5: 11-14

Gospel: John 21: 1-19 

After the crucifixion of Jesus, the disciples found themselves in a state of confusion and despair. Peter, along with several other disciples, decided to return to their former occupation of fishing-their pre-discipleship life. They may have been struggling to comprehend the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection. It highlights a profound moment of uncertainty where the disciples sought solace in familiar routines amidst existential turmoil. This may be true for all of us when life becomes difficult. We often retreat to familiar patterns of behavior and thinking, even when we know that going backward is not the solution. They just did not know how to move forward. 

They were used to being guided or led. In spite of Jesus having taught them what to do and how to do it, they felt inadequate. Consequently, they resorted to what they knew best which was fishing. However, the disciples' return to fishing turns out to be a disaster. They fish all night, and they catch nothing. Their efforts are completely unproductive even though they are experts in this field. 

Just as the disciples found themselves casting their nets in futility, many of us today may be wrestling with existential questions, seeking answers that seem elusive or just out of our reach. This scenario invites us to reflect on our own pursuits. We frequently find ourselves "fishing" for solutions in life's turbulent waters yet come up empty-handed. And yet, the act of casting nets again can be seen as a sign of resilience and hope amid uncertainty. It underscores the importance of faith. Not merely in religious terms but as an intrinsic belief in possibilities outside our current uncertain reality. 

The dialogue between Jesus and Peter emphasizes forgiveness and purpose. Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves him, addressing his denials and offering restoration opportunities. Each affirmation is accompanied by a commission to feed his sheep, highlighting love for Christ and communal responsibility in Christian ministry.

Like the disciples who ultimately found success through renewed effort and faithfulness to Jesus' instruction, we too, are reminded that clarity often emerges when we align ourselves with a broader vision - the vision of the Risen Lord.  Easter is a time of reflection and renewal, as it marks the end of dark night fishing and the beginning of the Easter resurrection. Jesus invites us to live as resurrected people, examining our fishing habits and living on the other side of the cross. “Follow me,” Jesus says, “and live as resurrected people.”

Sr. Venentia Mthembu, OP