Daily Gospel Reflection for May 23, 2015

Today’s Gospel: John 21:20-25

When we think about our path to holiness, we often look to see what others are doing. Sometimes it may be to see if “we’re doing it right.” Other times we may be judging or guessing at another’s situation or motives. In this passage, we read about Peter who is concerned with who the disciple is that will betray Him. Later, when Jesus tells Peter to follow Him, he asks about John. He is curious to know why John should stay behind. Jesus’ answer to this, as it is for us today, is that He has a plan for all of us. We each have a different role in serving Him. Some are called to actively preach the faith and evangelize. Some are called to share the faith by example and writing. Whichever our path, God gave us our gifts to help us fulfill His plan. And so today, let us not ask, “What about that disciple?” Let us ask, “How will I participate in God’s plan? What is my role?”

Ponder:

What is my role in God’s plan for me? What is my role in His plan for the world?

Pray:

Dear Jesus, help me to focus my eyes not on what others are doing, but on you. When my thoughts wander to what others are doing, help me to remember what I can do for you. Protect me from the temptation to compare my role to others’ and from judging others based on what I see.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Jennifer Gladen