First Reading - Acts 25:13-21
Gospel - John 21:15-19
In the first reading, we encounter Paul, who stands trial before King Agrippa and Queen Bernice. Though the charges against him are baseless, Paul does not recoil in silence or bitterness. Instead, he boldly proclaims the Gospel, even in the face of injustice. What fuels this courage? It is his love for Christ. Paul's love is not abstract; it’s dynamic and courageous. It moves him to preach even when persecuted, to witness even when bound. Love becomes the driving force of his mission and the source of his perseverance.
In the Gospel, we are brought to a powerful post-Resurrection scene. Jesus, in a quiet and intimate setting, offers Peter not only breakfast but also a second chance—a restoration after failure. Three times Jesus asks, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Each time, Peter responds, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” With each response, Jesus entrusts him with a responsibility: “Feed my lambs… tend my sheep… feed my sheep.” Here we see a profound truth: love is not only a feeling—it is the foundation of mission and responsibility.
Jesus’ questions to Peter are not to shame him for his past denial, but to lead him to a deeper love—a love purified by failure and humility. And in this love, Jesus gives Peter two great honors: the primacy of leadership in the Church, and the privilege of martyrdom. Love, after all, demands both responsibility and sacrifice.
The primacy of Peter was solemnly affirmed by the Church, particularly at the First Vatican Council. The Dogmatic Constitution *Pastor Aeternus* declared that the primacy of jurisdiction over the universal Church was conferred directly upon Peter by Christ. This primacy is not a reward for perfection, but a responsibility grounded in love. Peter, who once fell, now leads because he loves.
Tradition also tells us that Peter followed Jesus not only in life but also in death. He was crucified during Nero’s persecution—head downward, out of humility—because real love, as Peter learned, ultimately means laying down one’s life for the beloved.
Dear friends, today's Gospel reminds us that every Christian responsibility—whether great or small—must be animated by love. When Jesus entrusts Peter with care of His flock, it is because Peter has declared his love. So too with us. Every act of service, every word of kindness, every task in our family, parish, or community should flow from love. As St. Mother Teresa beautifully said, “It’s not how much we do, but how much love we put into the doing.”
Let us also remember to pray for the Pope, the successor of Peter, and for our bishops—the successors of the apostles—that they may lead the Church with love, courage, and fidelity to Christ.
May our lives be animated by true love—a love that makes our burdens lighter, our duties meaningful, and our witness more powerful. And may we never forget that Jesus, the God of second chances, continues to ask each of us: “Do you love me?” May our response be humble, sincere, and lived in action.
May God inspire us always to grow in His love.
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