Third Sunday of Easter – Cycle C
Reflecting on John 21: 1-19
I heard the Passion this year more than any other Lent. Or, maybe I just HEARD the Passion more—really heard it, really contemplated it, was really broken over it, more than ever before. In the same way, I resolve to read the Easter gospels with brand-new eyes this season as well.
And so, I have some questions. When Jesus visited his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, we don’t know how much time had elapsed since he appeared to them (with Thomas) one week after Easter. We know that they’d returned to their occupation before being called to follow Christ. What were they thinking on that boat that day? Did we dream all of this? And yet, we all remember the Risen Jesus appearing to us in the room where we were hiding, and, the second time, Thomas even felt his wounds!
So, what did they think had happened to Jesus since he appeared to them? Weren’t they beside themselves, not knowing where he was, or what his resurrection meant for their futures? (I suspect Peter was PARTICULARLY interested in that question.) Apparently, they had reunited with their families in the Galilee, after traveling with Jesus for three years. They were back fishing, making a living.
The story has a familiar pattern, maybe in our own lives, too. A long night on frightening waters. Hunger. Uncertainty. Fear. And then, a familiar Voice, encouraging them to try another way.
Hear the voice of Pope Francis, calling us from heaven: Try another way.
My question, then, as I read this gospel: what new way is God showing me? Do I have the faith to cast my net to the other side?
What behaviors have not been fruitful for you? How will you try another way?
Kathy McGovern ©2025