Explore the connection between love, courage, and identity in today's Gospel reflection, inviting prayer and support for those facing challenges.
Today's Gospel: John 21:15-19
When my youngest was almost two years old, he started to frequently ask me, "Me happy. You happy?" while placing his little hands on both sides of my face. This new way of acting was surprising to me. I wondered why he was asking this. One day, I was deeply concerned about a trying situation in my life. I was going through the motions as a stay-at-home mom, trying to tend to my three preschoolers. My youngest asked me his usual question twice while making me slow down as he insisted on placing his hands on my cheeks. I realized he could perceive something was not right. I had to take courage in answering my intuitive toddler with the truth. I realized I was happy! Concerned, but happy to be his mom. I replied to him, “You happy. Me happy!" (Never mind the grammar.)
In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks Peter a question that is also surprising to me:
“Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” John 21:15
Jesus does not hold Peter’s face in His hands, but holds him up to his identity, “Simon, son of John.” Jesus knows something is not right with Peter after his denying Him three times. Insistently, Jesus asks Peter the same question three times, and, in my view, Peter realizes that his love for Jesus remains, regardless of the trying situation he went through. At the end of this Gospel reading, Jesus invites Peter, as at the start of their encounter, to follow Him. I think Peter could have replied, “Lord, You are happy. I am happy to follow You!”
Ponder:
Think of a time when you went through a trying situation. How did you make it through?
Pray:
Dear Jesus, we love You with all our hearts, minds, and souls. Send us Your Holy Spirit that we may have courage to follow You after a trying situation.
Pray Together:
Make a list of friends who might be going through a trying situation. Pray for them by name. Consider letting them know you are doing so.
Copyright 2026 Ana Barraza
Ana Barraza is the author of Together as One Body, an international speaker, a Special Education teacher, and a Master Catechist. She directs the bilingual choir in her parish, where she serves with her family. Ana is the creator and founder of Catholicus.info, a project that aims to facilitate the encounter with Jesus and persons with disAbilities.
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