Short Homily for Friday of the Seventh Week of Easter

πŸ“– Theme: “Follow Me – No Matter the Cost”
Readings: Acts 25:13b–21 | Psalm 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20ab | John 21:15–19


πŸ˜‚ Introduction 

Some years ago, I visited a parish where the local cook was notorious for burning food. One day, I gently asked her, “Why does every dish have the same taste?” She replied confidently, “Father, it’s the flavour of the Holy Spirit!” I still ate — out of faith, not flavour. But her answer reminded me: sometimes we serve with love even when we get things wrong. Jesus doesn’t need perfection. He needs love.

πŸ“– The Word of God

In today’s Gospel, we hear the powerful conversation between the Risen Jesus and Peter. “Do you love me?” Jesus asks not once, but three times — healing the three denials Peter made during the Passion. This is not just a moment of forgiveness; it’s a commissioning.

Each “Yes, Lord” is met with a call to action: “Feed my sheep.”
It’s a reminder that love for Jesus must translate into service for others — especially the vulnerable.

And then comes the sobering part: “When you were younger… you went where you wanted. But when you are old… someone else will lead you.” It is both prophecy and promise. Following Jesus is not always glamorous. But it is glorious — because it leads us to the fullness of love.

✝️ Eucharist

Here at the table of the Lord, we bring our “yes,” even if shaky, even if half-baked. In the Eucharist, Jesus does not ask for experts, but for hearts. As we receive His Body, we receive strength to feed others — with hope, healing, and humility.

Question for Reflection

Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me?”
If He asked me today, how would I answer?
What would my actions say?

πŸ› ️ Daily Practical Application

Call someone today who feels forgotten.
Visit an elder, encourage a youth, comfort a widow.
Feed His sheep — not only with bread, but with time, presence, and dignity.

πŸ’­ For Those Facing Difficulties

Peter had denied Christ. Yet Jesus calls him not by his failure, but by his future. You too may feel broken, ashamed, or unworthy. But the Lord is not done with you. The past is not your prison — it’s your platform.

πŸŽ‰ What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

This Jubilee Year, become a witness of mercy. Like Saint Peter, don’t hide your wounds. Use them to build bridges. Share your faith story with others — not perfectly, but authentically.

πŸ‡ΏπŸ‡¦ South African Touch – Pilgrims of Hope

In a country still healing from its wounds, we are called to be shepherds of one another. From the bustling cities to the quiet villages, we must be people who “braai with purpose” — that is, gather to share, pray, and uplift.

πŸ’¬ Inspiration Quote

“God does not call the qualified. He qualifies the called.”

πŸ•Š️ Conclusion

Jesus restores Peter and calls him to follow — even unto death. Today, He calls each of us to follow Him with love that feeds others. You don’t need to be perfect. Just willing.

πŸ™ Short Prayer

Lord Jesus,
You know I am weak.
But You also know that I love You.
Help me feed Your sheep — in my home, my Church, my country.
Make me a pilgrim of hope.
Amen.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog