The These

These are a few thoughts on this coming's gospel, John 21:1-19.

In verse 15, who/what are the “these?” Is Jesus talking about fish? Since Jesus was no longer with the disciples in person, was Peter cashing in his chips by returning to fishing? Or, was it just a way for him to go to the familiar and clear his head? What do you think?

 

Are the “these” the other disciples? Here we have Jesus commissioning Peter as leader of the disciples. Did Peter’s love of Jesus need to excel that of the other disciples?

 

Are the “these” all of the above? Was Simon Peter willing to give up all the familiar to follow Jesus and lead the disciples?

 

Jesus’ call to each one of us is to love him more than “these;” the “these” of work, family, home, friends. That doesn’t mean we have to live an isolated life like some desert hermits—quite the contrary, since our call is to be Christ’s presence in the world.

 

Simon Peter, like Jesus, was crucified for the faith. It is said that Peter asked to be crucified upside down because he was unworthy to be crucified in the same way his Lord was. Whatever the “these” are, it seems Simon Peter did love Jesus more than them, enough to lay down his life for the faith.

 

Let us pray: By your word, eternal God, your creation sprang forth, and we were given the breath of life. By your word, eternal God, death is overcome, Christ is raised from the tomb, and we are given new life in the power of your Spirit. May we boldly proclaim this good news in our words and our deeds, rejoicing always in your powerful presence; through Jesus Christ, our risen Lord. Amen.  (Evangelical Lutheran Worship sundaysandseasons.com)

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