OUR REHABILITATION
God wants others
to see the Light of Christ in us in the way we live, speak and give witness to
the joy of the Gospel…, "Such is the race that seeks for Him, that seeks
the Face of the God of Jacob" (Ps 24:6).
Many
of us may feel that we cannot participate in the ministry of Jesus Christ
because we do not posses all the qualifications with a perfect record. We may
also contend that we cannot possibly contribute anything because we failed in a
variety of ways in our life. However, both of today's Scripture readings reject
such claims! In addressing the Corinthians, St. Paul mentions the various
leaders in their community, including himself and St. Peter. Although Paul
persecuted the Christians earlier and Peter denied Jesus Christ at the time of
the Passion, they both emerge as leaders in the Faith community. Peter admits
his sinfulness after the miraculous catch of fish. Instead of dismissing Peter,
Jesus first urges him not to fear. He then promises Peter a new career
opportunity as a special kind of fisherman in God's service. In both instances,
Jesus has rehabilitated Peter and Paul so they can do something much bigger and
better.
Our
heavenly Father chooses ordinary people like you and me to be His modern day
disciples, and He uses the ordinary circumstances of our daily lives to draw
others on the path to Him. Jesus speaks the same message to us today, for we
will "catch people" to bring them to God if we allow the Light of
Christ Jesus to shine through us. God wants others to see the Light of Christ
in us in the way we live, speak and give witness to the joy of the Gospel. In
today's Responsorial Psalm we acclaim, "Such is the race that seeks for
Him, that seeks the Face of the God of Jacob" (Ps 24:6).
Dear
Jesus, as Your disciples, fill our hearts with love, joy and compassion so
others may come to know Your goodness!