THE DISCIPLE WHOM JESUS LOVED - 12/27/22 (Feast of Saint John, Apostle and evangelist)

John 20:1–3

On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we do not know where they put him.” So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. 

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/122722.cfm

Blessed Feast of St. John! St. John is also called "John the beloved", and in this gospel reading, he called himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved. Why did he use such words? This doesn't mean that our Lord doesn't love everyone. At the same time, one reason we can ponder upon is how St. John persevered in loving Christ among other disciples. Of all the 12 disciples, he was the only one who rested his head on the chest of Christ and listened to the beating of His Sacred Heart. He was the one who endured the suffering of witnessing the death of Jesus on the cross and the one who took Mary into his own home. In this gospel reading, he was able to outrun St. Peter in coming to the tomb. Today, many people seem to be enjoying their parties and gatherings. After all, we are remembering the birth of our Savior. But, have we neglected our purpose of loving Him? Have we been distracted that we are unable to pray our prayers like the rosary, attend Mass and other important things in spirituality as well? God doesn't tell us to "compete" with one another. After all, to have such a perspective in spirituality is a sign of pride, not humility. Rather, God is telling us to persevere in loving Him even amidst the challenges and distractions in life. This is what will give us a more complete and authentic joy. 

Another important reason why St. John used such a title to himself is because this is truly his identity. In the gospel according to St. John, he did not explicitly name himself. This showed us that, as he pondered on his identity, he realized that he was a follower of Christ whom He loved, before he could even love Him. After all, even St. John had numerous imperfections such as abandoning our Lord when He was arrested, falling to harsh judgment over others, etc. Despite all of his brokenness, Jesus still accepted Him. The same is true for us. We may be discouraged as we see our imperfections. We may feel sad when we fall to temptations such as pride, anger, lust and others. But, the truth doesn't change, and this truth is about God's love for us. We are His beloved disciples. Let's accept this identity and we will be able to ponder more on God's mercy for us. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Saint John the Apostle and Evangelist—Feast:

https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/27-december-saint-john-the-apostle-and-evangelist--feast/

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth