St. John, Monday — 27th December 2021 — Gospel: John 20, 2-8
Called to become Beloved
The three characters, Mary Magdalene, Peter and the Beloved disciple, who passionately loved Jesus are around the tomb of their Master. What distinguishes ‘the beloved disciple’ from others is his most intimate love for Jesus. This is manifested in his action here. Among the two disciples who raced to the tomb, the beloved arrives first, but he steps aside to the tomb, allowing Peter to enter the tomb ahead of him. And the Scripture and Tradition affirm that there was a gradual process of building up his personal love, by knowing, experiencing and witnessing Jesus in all the important events of his life. Thus he stands as testimony of faith and hope to this Word of Life through his proclamation of the Gospel of Love.
