https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/052424.cfm
Do You Love Me?
Do you know people, perhaps yourself, who have gone to a doctor and then another doctor, another doctor, and can’t find the correct diagnosis? I met a lady who went to five different doctors before one doctor asked her to take a nitroglycerin pill. Within minutes, the medication lifted a huge weight from her chest.
This doctor knew she had blocked arteries in her heart, and tests proved that to be the case. Her surgery was successful because the doctor asked her the right question. Jesus always asks the right question: “Simon, do you love me?”
He didn’t ask, “Simon, can I ever trust you again?” Or “Are you going to betray me again?” All Jesus wants to know is, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Think of the difficulties we have in our relationships, especially – the important ones.
During an argument, are not many of our questions, blaming questions, accusing questions, questions, or statements that put people down and try to shame them into feeling guilty? Does that ever work? We must be honest and say, “No, it doesn’t.” The focus of the question Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me?” turns Peter’s focus from himself and his sin to Jesus.
That question is Peter’s nitroglycerin pill, and it removes the sin and its bitterness in Peter’s heart. It would be so healing to ask someone who has hurt us deeply, “Do you love me?” It would probably take them entirely by surprise, and they would not know what to say at first. Play that scenario out in your imagination.
Gospel Challenge:
When we put ourselves and our hurts before others, we will accuse and blame them. But when we deliberately think of the other person’s best interest, a question or a statement that honors and respects them will bridge the gap sin has placed between us. “Simon, do you love me?
Jesus takes something so difficult for us and makes it so simple.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com
