First Reading - Acts 25:13-21 

Gospel - John 21:15-19


A well-known story tells of a young boy who broke a valuable vase at home. Fearing punishment, he avoided his father for days. Finally, unable to bear the guilt any longer, he confessed what he had done. To his surprise, his father did not reject him. Instead, he embraced him and said, “I am more interested in what you become than in what you have done.” That moment of forgiveness changed the boy’s life. He no longer obeyed his father out of fear, but out of love.
Today’s readings reveal this same truth: God does not define us by our failures. He forgives, restores, and entrusts us with a mission. What matters is not where we have fallen, but whether we allow His grace to raise us up again.
In the first reading, we find Paul the Apostle standing trial before King Herod Agrippa II and Governor Porcius Festus. The accusations against Paul revolve around his proclamation of Jesus, whom he affirms to be alive. For Paul, the Resurrection is not merely a doctrine but a reality that gives meaning to his entire life and mission.
Even though he faces imprisonment and uncertainty, Paul remains steadfast. His faith in the Risen Lord gives him courage to continue witnessing to the truth.
In the Gospel, we encounter one of the most moving scenes after the Resurrection. Peter, who had denied Jesus three times during the Passion, now stands before the Lord.
Three times Jesus asks him, “Do you love me?” The repeated question is not meant to humiliate Peter but to heal him. For each denial, there is now an opportunity to profess love. And with each profession of love, Jesus entrusts him with a mission: “Feed my lambs,” “Tend my sheep,” “Feed my sheep.”
Jesus does not dwell on Peter’s failure. Instead, He restores him and calls him to become a shepherd of His people. Love becomes the foundation of Peter’s ministry.
Then Jesus concludes with the words: “Follow me.” These simple words summarize the whole Christian life.
Dear friends, these readings invite us to reflect on three important realities: forgiveness, love, and mission.
First, forgiveness. Peter’s story reminds us that failure is not the end. We all have weaknesses, sins, and moments of infidelity. Yet Christ never tires of offering forgiveness to those who return to Him with sincere hearts.
Second, love. Before entrusting Peter with responsibility, Jesus asks only one question: “Do you love me?” Christian service is not primarily about talent, intelligence, or success. It begins with a genuine love for Christ.
Third, mission. Every forgiven disciple receives a mission. Like Peter and Paul, we are called to witness to Christ in our families, workplaces, and communities. The Lord does not call the perfect; He perfects those whom He calls.
The question for us today is: do we trust in Christ’s mercy when we fail? Can we sincerely say that we love Him? And are we willing to follow Him wherever He leads?
May we find courage in the example of Peter and Paul. May we allow Christ’s forgiveness to heal our hearts. And may we respond generously to His invitation: “Follow me,” dedicating our lives to loving Him and serving His people.