Like Peter am I ready to jump into the Sea?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Easter Season : Friday*

*GOSPEL - Jn 21:1-14*

*First Reading - Acts 4:1-12*

*Like Peter am I ready to jump into the Sea?*

*1) Beginning and End Scene is similar*

The fishing scene which is depicted in the Gospel today, also comes in the beginning of the public ministry of Jesus

The First call of the disciples, (Peter and Andrew, James and John) also has this similar event 

So one thing is very clear, the beginning scene of Jesus' ministry and the concluding scene is similar with a similar message 

*2) Same scene but one aspect is very Special*

In the calling scene of the disciples, it is said that they left their nets and followed Jesus 

But in the last scene it is specially mentioned that when Peter came to know that it was the Risen Lord, Peter immediately jumped into the Water 

So immediately jumping into the water was a special aspect of the last scene, and it has a special relevance to our life. 

*3) Importance of the jumping into the Sea*

Jumping into the sea, shows Peter's quickness to involve himself into the mission of the Lord

Jumping into the sea also means, Peter's willingness to take risk, or to face the challenges in accepting the mission of Christ 

Earlier we see, Peter's request to Jesus, to walk on the Water. But here we see, Peter does not wait for Jesus' approval to walk on the sea, but simply trusting in the Lord, jumps into the sea, and proceeds further 

Here we see Peter's deep faith and trust in the Lord, and his confidence in the Risen Lord 

*4) Peter's preparedness for the Mission*

In jumping into the sea, we also see Peter's  preparedness for the mission of the Lord

When he realized that it was Jesus - Peter  *wrapped his outer garment around him and jumped into the water.*

Preparedness for the mission is very important aspect to note, in the life of Peter. 

*5) What about me?*

The same Risen Lord also meets me today in different occasions

After having recognised  Jesus in different people am I ready to jump into the situation to act?

Peter is the model for us to jump into the situation and to do the mission of the Lord

*6) Things necessary to  follow the Peter's Model*

The goodwill to recognise the Risen Lord 

The courage to face the challenges - to jump into the sea

The depth of faith in the person of Jesus 

The focus on Jesus Himself and not on the water or waves 

The confidence in ones approach and the level of determination for the mission of Christ 

The determination to leave everything and to follow Jesus 

*7)  Am I ready for Peter's Model?*

What is my determination to follow Jesus?

Am I able to imitate Peter in doing the mission of the Lord? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*