When things come to an end or if our expectations are dashed, it can be tempting to return to ways that are familiar. The disciples of Jesus were kept rather busy trying to keep up with their teacher as he went along preaching and curing many of their illnesses. They were likely occupied 24/7 for three years straight as they accompanied him. With the crucifixion, everything appeared to come crashing down. 
 
The resurrection happened and the body of Jesus was gone from the tomb and he actually made some appearances to them. Still, those men returned to their previous routine of being fishermen. “Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We also will come with you." So, they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing” (John 21: 3). Should we be surprised? No. We would have probably done the same thing. 
 
What, then, brings us back to the path the Lord calls us to follow? First of all, it’s not what, but who? In his thrice-repeated question, the Risen Lord, in characteristic fashion, doesn’t give up on Simon Peter and awaits his response: “He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?”“ (John 21: 17a). For Christ Jesus, it’s not about repetition, but reassurance. Just as the disciples needed his peace as we listened to in the Gospel reading from last week, Divine Mercy Sunday, Jesus knows the disciples need to be strengthened by his love and reminded of his fidelity to them and all humanity. He returned to them because he loved them. 
 
Christ’s undying love for us doesn’t just bring him back, it keeps us with him and is his preferred manner of inviting us back. He calls us to be faithful, to remember who we are in his eyes, to remember his love for us, to be strong enough to love, and to allow ourselves to be loved. 
 
Christ Jesus has every right to ask us if we love him as many times as he sees fit. Why? Because he loves us even more. As a result, we are able to seek his mercy as many times as necessary. 
 
Peace in the Risen Lord!
Fr. Charlie