REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR FRIDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER 5TH APRIL 2024

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REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR FRIDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER 5TH APRIL 2024

Act 4:1-12; Ps.118; John 21:1-14

Becoming a mature Christian

A mature person does things out of conviction. When we are convinced of the power of the resurrection, we will practice the Christian faith more maturely. One who is convinced is not afraid but bold. This boldness is not pretentious but able to stand the test of time.

In the life of Peter, we find this graduation from immature faith to mature faith. When Jesus told Peter that he would deny him three times, Peter boldly refuted Jesus and pledged that he would give up his life for Jesus. He seemed to maintain this boldness as he drew out his sword and cut off the ear of one the servants who had come to arrest Jesus. But when he saw that Jesus was being condemned to death, he three times denied that he ever knew Jesus or belonged to his company. The sight of the authorities and fear of being condemned like Jesus, crippled Peter’s boldness.

Jesus’ resurrection and consequent appearance to the disciples strengthened the faith of the disciples. They came to understand the faith better, discovered its richness and found it worthy of any sacrifice including one’s life. It was at this point that the disciples came to maturity in the faith.

And so, in today’s first reading, after Peter had healed the lame man, he could boldly witness to Jesus’ resurrection to the same authorities he once feared. He knew that he was saying what they did not want to hear. Yet, he was so convinced that he could no longer be intimidated by fear as he witnessed to the truth.

It is the Lord who enables us to bear witness to him. When the disciples decided to go fishing in today’s gospel, Jesus comes into their midst to share life with them through a meal. It is this life-sharing that built their conviction. Dear friends in Christ, today, let us honestly offer to God whatever prevents us from boldly living authentic Christian lives. Let us truly hunger for the opportunity to share in the Eucharistic banquet for He is the food for the journey.

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