Daily Catholic Lectio
Sat, 7 June 2025
Seventh Week of Easter – Saturday
Acts 28:16–20, 30–31. John 21:20–25
Life Focus
“Lord, what about him?”… “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!”
Though chapter 21 of John’s Gospel is often seen as an epilogue, the scenes it portrays teach essential lessons for our personal and spiritual lives. As Peter walks behind Jesus, his attention turns to “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” He asks, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus firmly redirects Peter’s focus: “What is that to you? You follow me!”
This moment highlights one of the greatest distractions in life: over-concern about others. We often exhaust our energy hoping others will approve of our words, affirm our actions, or hold a good opinion of us. In doing so, we allow comparison, envy, and restlessness to fill our hearts. We worry too much about others’ paths and forget our own.
In the first reading, we witness Paul arriving in Rome. Despite being in chains, he remains focused and firm. His journey reminds us of that clarity of purpose and courage are indispensable for true discipleship. Paul’s example offers a striking contrast to Peter’s moment of distraction—Paul keeps his gaze on the goal.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (no. 1808), in describing the cardinal virtue of fortitude, teaches: “Fortitude ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obstacles in the moral life.” Fortitude helps us cut through distractions and focus on what truly matters.
Life is a test of choices. The questions each of us face may differ, even if we share the same room. If we begin copying others, we risk failing our unique mission. We should measure our lives not by how we fare compared to others, but by whether we have grown today—in health, peace of mind, generosity, and love—compared to yesterday.
Each of us is created uniquely. Let us guard our hearts, focus on our path, and hear again Jesus’ personal call: “You—follow me!”
“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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