Follow Me

"Follow me." (Jn 21: 19). These powerful and commanding two words appear at the end of the story in today's Gospel, where Jesus has just fed breakfast to several of he remaining eleven apostles, and had Peter undo his tri-fold denial with a tri-fold affirmation of his love for Jesus. I find it amazing that Jesus always forgives, allows us to regain confidence, draws even deeper commitment from us and then entrusts us with tasks that at first seem far beyond our ability to carry out. "Follow me." Would you or I have ever ever wanted to continue friendship with or chosen this cowardly "weakling" to take over leadership in a new and dynamic movement? Jesus' insight into hearts, into potential, and his firm belief that "love makes all things possible" shows us how we should act with others. After all, it's how he acts towards us!
"Lord, thank you for your patience, your gentle correction, your confidence and love. May I, in turn, be patient with myself and others, and allow love to enable us to follow you into the unknown with the assurance that we have nothing to fear and will be able to accomplish what at first appeared impossible. Amen.
Bro. Rene