Sunday Reading Reflections:

April 18, 2010
Third Sunday of Easter

Reading 1 Reflection:

If our readings each had titles, this one could be called "Brave Heroes Spread Good News." Although Peter and some of the other apostles had been imprisoned and beaten, they continued to preach in Jesus' name. They also dared to accuse the religious authorities of putting Jesus to death.

Despite the danger to themselves, the apostles spoke out with great courage. "We must obey God rather than men," they proclaimed. Now that they were filled with the Holy Spirit, facing danger for Jesus' sake actually made them joyful!

Reading 2 Reflection:

The title of the second reading might be "All Creation Praises the Lamb." It describes a vision of the heavenly court in which a huge crowd of angels and all living beings are gathered. They are all singing the praises of the Lamb of God, Jesus the Lord. By his death and resurrection, Jesus has reconciled us with God and given us cause for great joy.

Gospel Reflection:

The title of this wonderful story from John's Gospel might be "Surprise Picnic at the Beach." In a very human way, it shows the great love Jesus and his friends had for one another. While the disciples are out fishing, the risen Christ appears on the shore at Lake Tiberias. They are anchored at a distance and do not recognize him. But when they follow his advice and wind up with a sagging net full of fish, John figures out that the stranger is Jesus. Coming ashore, they enjoy the picnic breakfast Jesus has prepared for them.

Although our reading stops after the meal itself, we know from the rest of the Gospel that Jesus called Peter aside after they ate. He asked Peter to "feed my lambs. Tend my sheep."