SAINT JOHN, APOSTLE, AND EVANGELIST
1 John 1:1-4, Ps. 97:1-2,5-6,11-12, John 20:2-8
John was frequently identified in the gospel as “the other disciple”, “the one that Jesus loved” and “John the Beloved.” He authored the Book of Apocalypse (Revelation), three Epistles, and the fourth gospel. Among the best in the New Testament are his statements on the pre-existence of the Word, who, via His Incarnation, became the light of the world and the life of our souls. He is an apostle of Christ’s divinity and fraternal love.
He began his ministry when he accepted Christ’s invitation. According to the gospel, Jesus observed two brothers mending their nets in the boat with their father, Zebedee. The two brothers were James, the son of Zebedee, and John, his brother. When He summoned them, they immediately got out of the boat and followed Him. Every call involves an absolute renunciation; we must learn to quit all and follow Jesus. Is this possible? Indeed, it is! How? Reject the worthless promises of Satan.
Jesus referred to “John” and his brother “James the Greater” as the “Sons of Thunder.” Why? because they have a thunderous personality. That is, they often sound very threatening and extremely angry. For example, when Jesus’ teaching was rejected in Samaria, James and John pleaded with him to send fire from heaven to destroy them (Luke 9:54). They also went through a harsh and excessively ambitious period. For example they said, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you,” they pleaded with Jesus. Please allow us to sit in your splendor, one at each of your sides (Mark 10:35, 37).
John, however, was aware of the methods of genuine friendship and the path of sacrifice. Together with Mary, the Blessed Virgin, John kept watch at the cross. Thus, Jesus entrusted John with the care of His mother saying, “Behold your Son…Behold your Mother,” (John 19:26–27). He was a genuine friend of Jesus yet also devoted to him as Lord.
In addition, he witnessed several significant moments in Jesus’ life, including the Transfiguration, the institution of the Eucharist, the Crucifixion of the Lord, and, as recorded in today’s gospel, the finding of the Resurrection.
Last but not least, the gospel of today teaches us about John’s humility. Peter and John both hurried to the grave, but John was faster. But John waited outside the tomb for Peter to approach and enter the tomb before him. Beloved, we need to develop the spirit of humility. Even though you run faster than your teachers or parents, learn to be submissive and humble. St. John,patron saint of friendship, love, and loyalty, pray for us.
LET US PRAY
O God, who through the blessed Apostle John has unlocked for us the secrets of your Word, grant, we pray, that we may grasp with proper understanding what he has so marvelously brought to our ears. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen!
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
