THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Friday in the Octave of Easter

Acts 4:1-12

Ps 118

John 21:1-14

The net was not torn…

Dear friends in Christ, there are times when difficulties arise and the human element tries to overshadow the gentle voice of the Spirit in man. It is at such a time all suggestions point to solving problems by human power and neglecting the voice of God, which should prompt our actions. The Lord however is never far away. He comes to the aid of his own by making his presence felt.

In today’s first reading, (Acts 4:1-12) the priests and the captain of the Temple and the Sadducees came upon Peter and John, who were addressing the crowd on account of the healing of the cripple. They were angry that these apostles were teaching the people about the resurrection of Jesus. They got them arrested and brought to trial. The courage of the Apostles must have surprised everyone. The same Peter who denied Jesus three times at his trial, spoke up in defense of their faith in Jesus, calling him, “The stone which was rejected by you builders, but which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men, by which we must be saved.” While these elders were afraid of what might become of them, these disciples of Jesus have become bold, thereby gaining more and more followers. How bold are you in defence of your faith?

The gospel of today(John 21:1-14) reveals to us another of the post resurrection appearances of Jesus and how the Apostles recognised him. The miraculous catch of the fish in this passage tells the story. This was by the Sea of Tiberias. Simon Peter had decided to go back to fishing and the others decided to follow him. They worked hard all night without a catch. By the morning time, on their return, someone at the seaside told them to try one more time and when they tried, they caught so much and only then did one of them said, “It is the Lord.” The Lord comes in their disappointment, to assure them He is always present. The catch of fish at this time and in that quantity without their nets breaking is something awesome. “Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three of them, and although there were so many, the net was not torn.” It takes the grace of God to manage success. This net is the image of the Church. They came ashore but there was food on fire already. The Lord can provide without our effort, but still, he demanded they bring some of the fish they have just caught, because he appreciates our efforts. The Lord who promised water to the woman at the well, also gives fish to fishermen without casting a hook. He is the Lord of all things and you have nothing to fear. The Church has grown this big with the entire world as its catchment area, it is still evangelizing to catch more. Peter needs our prayer to keep the church one and the net unbroken.

Let us pray: Lord bless our Pope in his mission to keep the Church united. Bring your flock together under one shepherd. Amen.

+Remain blessed