The beloved disciple—John the Apostle.

Serves as the primary eyewitness and guarantor of the truth of Jesus

After Jesus' crucifixion, the disciple provides firsthand

testimony of the blood and water flowing from Jesus' side. 

 

＊＊＊ 1st Reading ＊＊＊    

Acts 28:16-20, 30-31

Upon our arrival

In Rome, the captain turned the prisoners over to the military governor,

but permitted Paul to lodge in a private house, with the soldier who guarded him.

After three days, Paul called together the leaders of the Jews.

When they had gathered, he said to them: "Brothers, though I have not done

anything against our people, or against the traditions of our fathers,

I was arrested in Jerusalem, and handed over to the Romans.

They examined me, and wanted to set me free, for they saw nothing in my case

 

that deserved death. But the Jews objected, so I was forced to appeal to Caesar

without the least intention of bringing any case against my own people.

Therefore, I have asked to see you, and speak with you, since it is

because of the hope of Israel, that I bear these chains."

Paul stayed for two whole years, in a house he, himself, rented, where he received,

without any hindrance, all those who came to see him.

He proclaimed the kingdom of God, and taught the truth about Jesus Christ,

the Lord, quite openly and without any hindrance.

 

Ps 11:4, 5, 7

The just will gaze on your face, O Lord.

 

＊＊＊ Gospel ＊＊＊      

John 21:20-25

Peter looked back and saw that the disciple Jesus loved was following as well,

the one who had reclined close to Jesus at the supper, and had asked him, "Lord, who is to betray you?"

On seeing him, Peter asked Jesus, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "

If I want him to remain until I come, is that any concern of yours? Follow me!"

Because of this, the rumor spread in the community that this disciple would not die.

 

Yet Jesus did not say to Peter, "He will not die," but, "Suppose I want him to remain

until I come back, what concern is that of yours?" It is this disciple who testifies

about the things and has written these things down, and we know that his testimony is true.

But Jesus did many other things; if all were written down,

I think the world itself could not contain the books that should be written.

 

Gospel Reflection ：

 

We can encounter Jesus daily.

One of the most intriguing figures in the Gospel is the beloved disciple mentioned in John.

Numerous scholars have offered various interpretations; yet, a definitive identity

for this beloved disciple remains elusive. What is certain is that this beloved disciple

possesses a profound understanding of who Jesus is. In today's Gospel,

the beloved disciple testifies to the truth of Jesus-the God-made Man.

 

His knowledge stems from a personal encounter with Him, leading to a deep

belief in God's work unfolding in his life. Though we may not experience Jesus directly,

we can encounter Him daily. These encounters often come through inspiring

individuals who share their faith, reminding us that faith is lived

and breathed within a community united in the mission of Christ.