Peter denied Jesus, but he is not held back by this mistake. After his encounter and reconciliation with Jesus on the seashore, Peter lives with bold faith. Tucker Redding, SJ, reflects on our own need to live like we’ve been forgiven. Based on the readings for Sunday, May 1, 2022.
We are loved and forgiven by God. Let’s act like it!
Hi, I’m Tucker Redding and this is my One-Minute Reflection.
In today’s Gospel, we see Jesus once again appearing to his friends and giving them exactly what they need. What does Peter need in this instance? Forgiveness.
Peter boldly claimed at the Last Supper that even if everyone else should desert Jesus, he wouldn’t, yet that’s exactly what he did.
So Jesus asks him, “Do you love me?” for each time that Peter denied him. Peter affirms his love for Jesus, and Jesus renews his calling. Peter is not held back or defined by his mistakes, nor does Jesus give up on him.
In the first reading, we see what Peter is like after this encounter. The man that denied Jesus now cannot be silenced. He boldly proclaims the name of Jesus.
Let’s move beyond our mistakes, seek reconciliation with God, and live our lives as those loved, forgiven, and called by God.
