Daily Gospel Reflection for April 9, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Kathryn Mulderink

Today's Gospel: John 21:1-14

It is the confusing period between the Resurrection and the Ascension, and the Holy Spirit has not yet been sent in all His fullness to the Church. The disciples are awaiting further instruction and decide to go fishing, but have labored all night in vain, having caught nothing. They see a man on the shore cooking breakfast (what a breakfast that would be!), who tells them to try the other side of the boat. This probably did not seem like it would be fruitful; after all their hours of emptiness, what could possibly come from simply casting the net a few feet away? But they cast it anyway, and are rewarded with a great catch. Then they recognize the Lord.

The early Church fathers saw the ship as the Church and the sea as the world. With Peter at the helm, the Church casts a net over the world to draw all people to Christ. The Church is Christ’s continued activity in the world, doing His work and forwarding His Kingdom. It is our role to be disciples, and then go out to invite others to become disciples, knowing that it is all the work of the Holy Spirit. If we are willing instruments (willing even to do what may seem to our judgment to be fruitless), God will act through us to draw others.

If the disciples had not gone fishing, Jesus could not have directed them to re-cast their net. If they had not obeyed, Jesus could not have filled their net to overflowing. In working for God’s Kingdom on earth, we too are called to show up and do the work, but the harvest – the Great Catch – is the Lord’s doing.

Ponder:

What seemingly fruitless activity is God calling me to do in order to draw others to Himself?

Pray:

Lord, give me the grace to see that every action, when offered lovingly to Your service, can help open the hearts of others to Your Kingship, and draw them to You.

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In working for God’s Kingdom on earth, we too are called to show up and do the work, but the harvest – the Great Catch – is the Lord’s doing. #dailygospel

Copyright 2021 Kathryn Mulderink

Kathryn Mulderink, MA, is a mother of seven, and a Secular Discalced Carmelite. Over 25 years, she has worked in school and parish administration, and as a writer and voice talent for Catholic Radio. Currently, she serves the Church as a writer and speaker, collaborating with dioceses, parishes, and ministries to help others encounter Christ and engage their faith. www.KathrynTherese.com