“Come, have breakfast.” --Jesus (John21:12)
Post-resurrection, the disciples were in the midst of a rather significant transition. Jesus had been their constant companion for three years, walking and talking with them every day. Now, they could no longer see him whenever they desired. In the midst of so much change and uncertainty, it must have been nice to come to shore, put down their nets, and have breakfast with Jesus.
Over 2000 years later, this same invitation is given to us. We work all week. We toil, and we strive. In the face of the change and uncertainty of life, every Sunday morning (or Saturday/Sunday evening) we put down our nets, come to church, and Jesus says, “Come have breakfast.” We sing, we pray, and a meal is shared. We are given the unequivocal gift of quality time spent with the Lord as he quite literally shares himself with us.
As I picture this scene, I can’t help but wonder: What if during breakfast one of Jesus’ disciples had picked up the ol’ iPhone and began checking his email or began perusing the bulletin for something more interesting? What would have been Jesus’ reaction if immediately after being fed, the disciples began to stand up and leave without saying goodbye? I can easily see our first pope, the impetuous Peter, slapping the iPhone or bulletin out of his brother’s hand.
I imagine Jesus understands when I daydream at Mass. Like the disciples, lost in my own worries, anxieties, and sometimes boredom, I get distracted, and he calls me back with love in his eyes. In any case, if I desire to give Jesus my full attention, a change is needed. As transitions abound all around me, I pray that change happens inside of me as well. May God grant me the grace of conversion so that His Will might be done in me.
