Posted by The WORD in other words (2009) by Fr. Elmer I. Ibarra, SVD – Catholic Trade Manila
Friday 7th Week of Easter
It is very common for a couple who are in love to say “I love you” to each other several times in a day. Sometimes couple ask each other, “Do you love me?” This is actually not a question, rather it is a statement of endearment just to renew and make stronger the bonds of love they have for each other. And their response to the question can be very reassuring to both lovers as they express their feelings to each another.
I believe today’s Gospel tells about the feeling of endearment that Jesus has for Peter that is why Jesus is asking, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” Jesus, of course, knows the answer even without him asking .
However, I believe this is actually for Peter. Jesus is giving the reassurance to Peter that even though he denied him three times (that is why Peter became distressed when he was asked the third time), Jesus continues to love Peter. At the same time, he is telling Peter what he would eventually do, and that Peter will become the head of the Church. Therefore, he will glorify God.
Jesus continues to ask us if we love him every day of our life. He asks the question not because he wants to know if we love him (of course, we do), but to remind us that if we love Jesus, we should be like Peter and be ready to obey our Lord and follow him. If we really love Jesus, we must be ready to obey what he asks of us. There can be obedience without love, like when one is forced to obey because of fear or undue pressure, but there can never be love without obedience.
To follow Jesus and obey what he says may be difficult, but he is constantly reminding us today as he did with the apostles that he would send the Holy Spirit to be our advocate and guide. It is through the Holy Spirit that we would be able to overcome all difficulties as we follow and obey our Lord.
As the feast of Pentecost draws near, let us remind ourselves that we should be like Peter. Let us express to Jesus how much we love him and pray that the Holy Spirit would guide us to follow Jesus.
