When Jesus was arrested his followers scattered, fleeing the danger of arrest. Eventually, Peter made his way to where Jesus was being questioned by the religious leaders, waiting outside perhaps to see what he could learn or be on hand if Jesus was released. While standing around with others, Peter was recognized as a disciple of Jesus three times by different people in the courtyard, and each time, Peter insisted he was not a follower of Jesus. Jesus had predicted this would happen.
In this week’s gospel, Peter announces that he is going fishing, Though Jesus has been raised from the dead and appeared to the disciples, this is certainly an overwhelming time. It seems reasonable to imagine that all that has happened is so amazing, so unbelievable that the disciples don’t quite know how to continue to follow Jesus now that he has died and been raised from death. Peter has even more reason than the others to be overwhelmed and confused. In the very moments when Jesus was on trial, Peter denied that he was among Jesus’ followers. Peter turned his back on Jesus, just as Jesus had said.
When I consider Peter going fishing, a number of possible reasons come to mind. I imagine Peter was restless and unsure, and he knew a night of fishing would burn off some anxious energy. Maybe he wanted to do something physical that was productive and familiar, part of his life before following Jesus. Perhaps Peter wanted to stop thinking and lose himself in the hard work of putting out nets and pulling in a catch of fish. Along with memories of his interactions with Jesus, certainly Peter thought about his repeated denials. Even if he could comprehend that Jesus was alive again after dying, it’s possible that Peter didn’t think he would be welcome to return to following Jesus – all that was left for him was to return to fishing.
After sharing a breakfast including fish from the miraculous catch they finally brought in, Jesus turns to Peter. asking him three times, “do you love me?” Each time, as Peter responds that he does, Jesus commands him to care for his followers using shepherd images. Though Peter denied Jesus three times, Jesus gives him three chances to reaffirm his love and commitment, and three calls to continue to work he has begun. The whole interaction ends with Jesus calling Peter, “Follow me.”
Following Jesus is complicated and difficult. Sharing the good news of God, loving people without conditions, forgiving when it isn’t deserved, living compassion for imperfect people, striving for justice and peace in the world are all nearly impossible things to do. At some point or another, we all fail or turn away from following Jesus. Peter’s encounter on the shore reassures us that we are still Jesus followers, even though we are not always able to follow well. None of us will ever be perfect followers. Yet Jesus will always call us again to follow.
Peace,