Friday of the 7th Week of Easter

• First Reading – Acts 25:13b-21: King Agrippa and Bernice visit Festus in Caesarea, where Festus refers Paul’s case to the king due to religious disputes, but when faced with a dilemma in investigating the matter, Festus suggests sending Paul to stand trial in Jerusalem, yet Paul appeals to be held for the Emperor’s decision and is ordered to be held until he can be sent to Caesar.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 103: Bless the LORD, for his kindness knows no bounds and he reigns over all with his heavenly throne, praised by angels who carry out his will.
• Gospel – John 21:15-19: Jesus appears to His disciples after His resurrection and asks Peter three times if he loves Him, instructing him to feed and tend to His sheep. Jesus also foretells Peter’s future martyrdom and emphasizes the importance of following Him faithfully.

Lectionary Reference: 301

Upcoming dates: June 6, 2025, May 22, 2026, June 2, 2028, May 18, 2029, June 7, 2030, May 30, 2031, June 3, 2033

Friday of the 7th Week of Easter highlights themes of love, trust, and following Jesus. The readings show how faith calls us to commitment and courage in our relationship with Christ and with others.

• Restoration through Love: Jesus asks Peter to affirm his love, restoring him after his denial. This reminds us that love for Christ can renew our relationship with Him, even when we have failed.
• Following Jesus’ Call: Jesus tells Peter to follow Him, even knowing the cost. This teaches us that following Jesus may bring sacrifice, but it leads to life and purpose.
• Faithful Witness in Trials: Paul explains his situation to the authorities with honesty and courage. This shows how faith gives us strength to speak the truth, even in difficult moments.
• Jesus’ Care for His People: Jesus calls Peter to care for His followers as a shepherd. This reflects how we are called to care for others and share responsibility in our faith communities.
• Trusting God’s Plan: Both Peter and Paul face uncertain futures but trust God’s plan for their lives. This reminds us to trust God in all circumstances, knowing He is always with us.
• Repentance and Renewal: Peter’s opportunity to declare his love for Jesus is a moment of renewal. This shows us that God offers us the chance to turn back to Him and grow in faith.

Friday of the 7th Week of Easter reminds us that love, trust, and following Jesus are at the center of our faith. These themes call us to live courageously, care for others, and trust God’s guidance in every step of life.

Friday of the 7th Week of Easter invites us to reflect on themes of courage, love, and trust. Paul’s bold defense of his faith and Jesus’ call to Peter remind us how faith shapes our actions and renews our hearts. These reflections guide us to live with honesty, love, and confidence in God’s plan.

Courage to Speak the Truth

In the first reading for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter, Paul shows great courage as he explains his situation to the authorities. Despite being accused and misunderstood, he remains honest and steadfast. Paul’s faith gives him the strength to speak the truth, even when the outcome is uncertain.

This courage challenges us to think about how we respond in difficult moments. Do we stay true to our beliefs, or do we let fear hold us back? Paul’s example reminds us that faith is not just about what we believe but also about how we live and speak.

We can ask God to help us have courage like Paul. When we trust Him, we can face even the hardest situations with strength. Speaking the truth may not always be easy, but it reflects our trust in God and His presence in our lives.

Love Restores and Renews

In the Gospel for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter, Jesus gives Peter a chance to affirm his love three times. This moment is powerful because it allows Peter to heal from the pain of his denial. Jesus’ response shows that love can renew and restore us, even when we have made mistakes.

Peter’s experience reminds us that failure does not have to define us. When we turn back to Christ with love and humility, He welcomes us and gives us a fresh start. His call to Peter to care for His sheep shows that our love for Him must lead to action.

We can take comfort in knowing that God offers second chances. Just as Peter was restored, we too can experience renewal when we seek forgiveness and live out our love for Jesus.

Trust in God’s Plan

Both Peter and Paul face uncertain futures in the readings for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter. Jesus speaks to Peter about the sacrifices he will face, and Paul defends his faith before authorities without knowing what will happen next. Both men show trust in God’s plan, even when it is not clear.

Trusting God can be difficult when we do not know the outcome. Peter and Paul remind us that faith involves surrendering our worries to God and believing He is with us. Their trust shows us how to face challenges with hope and strength.

In our own lives, we can pray for the grace to trust God’s plan. When we rely on Him, we can move forward with courage, knowing that He will guide us. Trust allows us to follow Him with peace, even when the path is uncertain.

As we consider these readings, we see how God works through our lives, even in challenging moments. Whether we face difficult decisions, need to seek forgiveness, or learn to trust more deeply, the lessons of Friday of the 7th Week of Easter encourage us to grow in faith and follow Jesus with our whole hearts.

Prayer

Lord, help us to be honest and courageous in our faith. Renew us with Your love when we fall short, and give us trust to follow Your plan. Strengthen us to care for others and live in a way that reflects You. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• How can I show courage in sharing my faith, like Paul did?
• When have I experienced renewal after seeking forgiveness?
• How does Jesus’ call to care for others challenge me in my relationships?
• What does trusting God’s plan look like in my daily life?

Word on Fire: Repentance, Love, and Discipleship in Christianity

In Bishop Robert Barron’s reflection for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter, he examines the encounter between the risen Jesus and Peter. Peter, who had previously denied Jesus three times, is asked three times by Jesus if he loves Him, symbolizing his redemption and call to action.

Christianity is framed not merely as a set of beliefs but as a personal relationship with Jesus, emphasizing love demonstrated through action. True discipleship involves relinquishing control and embracing guidance from God.

What date is Friday of the 7th Week of Easter?

The next date is Friday June 6, 2025.

What are the Mass readings for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter?

The Mass readings for Friday June 6, 2025 are:
First Reading – Acts 25:13b-21: Paul’s Case Referred to King Agrippa
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 103: Praise God’s Kindness and Forgiveness
Gospel – John 21:15-19: Jesus’ Restoration and Commissioning of Peter

What can we learn from Paul’s defense before the authorities?

Paul speaks clearly and truthfully about his faith, even when it is hard. This encourages us to be honest about what we believe and trust God in difficult times.

Why does Jesus ask Peter if he loves Him three times in the Gospel for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter?

Jesus asks Peter three times to give him the chance to affirm his love after denying Him three times. This shows how Jesus offers Peter renewal and a way to rebuild their relationship.

What does Jesus mean by feeding His sheep?

Jesus asks Peter to care for His followers, just like a shepherd cares for a flock. This reminds us of our call to help and guide others in their faith.

Why does Jesus talk about Peter’s future?

Jesus tells Peter that following Him will involve sacrifice and challenges. This teaches us that being faithful may be hard, but it is worth it because it brings purpose and hope.

How does Peter’s story relate to us?

Peter’s failure and renewal show that God’s love offers second chances. We can trust that God is ready to forgive us and help us grow stronger in faith.

What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Following Jesus means listening to His teachings and living in a way that shows His love. It may involve sacrifices, but it leads to a meaningful and joyful life.

How can we trust God’s plan like Peter and Paul in the readings for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter?

Peter and Paul both face uncertainty but trust that God is guiding them. This reminds us to have faith, even when we don’t know what the future holds.

What does it mean to care for others in faith?

Caring for others means supporting them in their struggles, helping them grow, and showing kindness. This reflects Jesus’ call to love one another and take responsibility for each other.

Why does Jesus use the image of a shepherd?

A shepherd protects and guides the flock, just as Jesus cares for His people. Peter is asked to share this work, and we are also called to support and guide others in their faith.

How do these readings help us live our faith?

The readings for Friday of the 7th Week of Easter remind us to trust God, care for others, and be bold in our faith. They guide us to follow Jesus with love and courage.