3rd Sunday of Easter - Cycle C

John 21:1-19

“‘Follow me.’” (John 21:19)

What a fitting time for this Gospel, the scene that details Peter’s renewal and reinstitution as the head of Jesus’ Church. As you likely are aware, Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday and we are eagerly awaiting the Papal Conclave beginning this week. 

In this third weekend of Easter we see Simon Peter reappear for only the second time since denying Christ. The first began with him hiding in the upper room in the darkness, ending at the tomb. The second, here, begins with him leading the others to fishing again, their old profession, at night. With no success, they see a figure on the beach at dawn. 

In desperation, these seasoned fishermen “try the other side” at the advice of an unknown man. When this results in a miraculous catch, they recognize him as Christ. 

Following the command of Christ turned a fruitless effort into an unprecedented success. The moment Peter recognized Christ, he eagerly jumped in the water. 

The focus then shifts exclusively to Peter. While standing beside a charcoal fire he three times denied Our Lord, and he will now stand by a charcoal fire and profess three times his love for Our Lord. (The only two instances of a charcoal fire in all of Scripture.) The conclusion of this Gospel is Jesus’ invitation, once again, to follow. 

Much pain and struggle in life comes from our resistance to welcome that call each day, just as Peter experienced in these stories. Nevertheless, like Peter, Christ invites us, with endless mercy, to return to Him. 

It is only in following Christ that we will see the greatness of His call unfold and our efforts take on their full meaning and fruitfulness.