Solemnity of Easter Friday April 16, 2004 Scripture: Acts 4:1-12; John 21:1-14 Reflection: “Simon Peter went aboard and hauled ashore the net loaded with sizeable fish – one hundred and fifty-three of them.” - John 21:11 Think of Peter and his companions, who were seasoned fishermen and who had labored all night and had caught nothing. Then they hear a directive from a strange voice, “Cast your net off to the seaboard side and you will find something.” They obeyed and took so many fish they could not haul the net in. At that moment they realized, “It was the Lord.” On the shore Jesus was preparing breakfast for them and wanted some of their catch. They hauled them aboard – about 153 of them - and the net was not torn! Jesus, the Christ, can never be outdone in generosity! He is generosity personified! The fish were countable – the blessings we receive each day are countless. Being human, we need to try to enumerate them. Unfortunately, we also find ourselves counting the negative events and hurts we have experienced. What a wonderful grace to be able to blot out the latter and dwell on God’s abundant love with gratitude. How many negative thoughts must have crossed the minds of Peter and his companions, but they responded positively and were surprised. And so not to lose the miracle they counted the sizeable fish – “One hundred and fifty three.” Suggested Action: Count your blessings with love and gratitude. Sr. M. Barbara DuMont, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania

Graphic: Sr. Josefa Connolly, IHM