Opportunity to Make It Right

When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.”... second time... [Jesus said] ”Tend my sheep.”... the third time,...  [Jesus] said to him [Peter], “Feed my sheep.”... (Jn 22:15-17)

When someone asks you the same question three times, you might suspect that there is something going on. When Jesus asks Peter three times, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He wants to give Peter the opportunity to reaffirm his faith, love, and commitment since Peter was once denied knowing Jesus 3 times. This was not done in private but in the company of the other disciples. And soon, after the feast of Pentecost, Peter would go forth to boldly preach the Gospel and to courageously lead and shepherd the flock Jesus had entrusted to his care. Peter's life is an example of the wonders the Lord can work in a person's life.
Similarly, just as Jesus loved Peter unconditionally, Jesus loves us unconditionally, too. And when we slide off track we need not fear, for every moment offers us the opportunity to ask for forgiveness and reaffirm our faith and love for Jesus, trusting that he is working to accomplish great things in our lives as well. During this Covid-19 pandemic, can you recall a time when you experienced forgiveness and a time when you boldly witnessed the truth of the Gospels. Talk to Jesus about your experience today.

Give Me Strength, Lord

Lord, you are Holy above all others, and all of the strength that I need is in your hands. I am not asking, Lord, that you take this trial away. Instead, I simply ask that Your will be done in my life. Whatever that means, that is what I want. But I admit that it's hard, Lord. Sometimes I feel like I can't go on. The pain and the fear are too much for me, and I know that I don't have the strength on my own to get through this. I know that I can come to you, Jesus, and that you will hear my prayer. I know that it is not your intent to bring me to this point just to leave me in the wilderness alone. Please, Lord, give me the strength that I need to face today. I don't have to worry about tomorrow. If you just give me the strength that I need today that is all I need. Keep me from sinning during this trial. Instead, help me to keep my eyes on you. You are the Holy Lord, and all of my hope rests in you. Thank you for hearing my prayer. Amen. (Catholic Online Prayers)

O Blessed Mother Mary, Mother of hope, intercede for us all. Hail Mary full of grace…

Peace in Our Risen Lord,
Father Vincent-Vuong Nguyen