PRI Reflections on Scripture | Saturday of the 7th Week of Easter

Join Msgr. Don Fischer as he reads and delivers a short reflection on today’s gospel, followed by 3 1/2 minutes of contemplative music and a closing prayer. Msgr. Don hopes that today’s reflection on the gospel will empower you to carry the Word in your heart throughout the day.

Choose either the video or audio below.

Gospel
John 21:20-25

Peter turned and saw the disciple following whom Jesus loved,
the one who had also reclined upon his chest during the supper
and had said, "Master, who is the one who will betray you?"
When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about him?"
Jesus said to him, "What if I want him to remain until I come?
What concern is it of yours?  
You follow me."
So the word spread among the brothers that that disciple would not die.
But Jesus had not told him that he would not die,
just "What if I want him to remain until I come?
What concern is it of yours?"

It is this disciple who testifies to these things
and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true.
There are also many other things that Jesus did,
but if these were to be described individually,
I do not think the whole world would contain the books
that would be written.

Reflection

We've been listening to Jesus describe the work of his followers. What are they to do? The clear thing is they need to follow the example of Jesus. Everything else, in a way, is secondary. When Peter then questions Jesus about the ministry of John, he makes it clear that's not your business. He has his role and you will have your role.

Don't compare yourself to each other, but simply two words are what they need to do. He says, follow me.

Closing Prayer

Father, the richness of our relationship with you. Opening our hearts to listen to your word, what we should do of what we need to do. Help us to rivet ourselves to you and not to what other people think or what seems more practical. Let us always listen to your will, and as we follow it, we will truly be your disciple. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Kyle Cross