Easter is a 50 day season, in which we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. Jesus’ resurrection is something we should all celebrate, because it is the hope of our faith. We hear in the preface at Easter liturgies—For he is the true Lamb who takes away the sins of the world; by dying he has destroyed our death, and by rising, restored our life. Through His resurrection the victory is His; and through our faith in Him, the victory is ours. Jesus has destroyed sin and death, and gives us the hope for eternal life.
In today’s Gospel we hear about Jesus’ encounter with his disciples and with Peter. Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves him. This is to counter Peter’s denying Jesus three times earlier in the Gospel story. Peter is upset by this questioning, but it gives him a second chance at discipleship.
Let us imagine the question and commands of Jesus are directed to us. Do you love me? Feed my lambs…Tend my sheep…Follow me. We can imagine that Jesus gives us, like Peter, a second chance to live as a disciple. Our God, full of love and mercy, gives countless second chances. God never gives up on us. Are we willing to follow?
This weekend we will also celebrate the “May Crowning.” In this tradition of the church we will crown the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary signifying her as Queen of Heaven and Mother of God. All are invited to meet around the statue of Mary in the back lot of the church and participate in the crowning. It will take place at 9:15 a.m. on Sunday, May 1st.
I would like to close with a message from St. Mother Teresa about the Blessed Virgin Mary and devotion to her:
“If you ever feel distressed during the day, call upon our Lady, just say this simple prayer—Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to me now. I must admit, this prayer has never failed me.”
God bless,
Fr. Ryan