5/23/2026 (Saturday) Today’s Gospel reading: John 21:20-25

20 Peter turned round and saw behind him that other disciple, whom Jesus loved – the one who had leaned close to Jesus at the meal and had asked, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”
21 When Peter saw him, he asked Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?”
22 Jesus answered him, “If I want him to live until I come, What concern is it of yours? You follow me.”
23 So a report spread among the followers of Jesus that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he said, “If I want him to live until I come? What concern is it of yours?”
24 He is the disciple who spoke of these things, the one who also wrote them down; and we know that what he said is true.
25 Now, there are many other things that Jesus did. If they were all written down one by one, I suppose that the whole world could not hold the books that would be written.

5/23/2026 (Saturday) Today’s Gospel reflection / homily / sermon: John 21:20-25

This reading brings us to a touching conclusion of the Gospel of John. After restoring Peter and entrusting him with responsibility, Jesus was approached with a question about another disciple’s future. Peter became curious about what would happen to John, but Jesus gently redirected his attention. The message was clear: instead of comparing journeys, Peter was called to remain faithful to his own mission. The chapter ends by affirming that the testimony about Jesus is true and that His works are so great that no collection of books could fully contain them all.

This Gospel passage speaks powerfully to our modern lives. Many people spend too much time comparing themselves with others. We compare achievements, blessings, talents, appearance, opportunities, and even spiritual growth. Social media and worldly expectations often make us feel behind, forgotten, or less important. Yet Jesus reminds us that every person has a unique calling and path. God never measures us against another person’s assignment. He asks only for our faithfulness.

Peter’s question reflects a struggle common to humanity: the desire to know why others seem to receive different roles or experiences. But Jesus teaches that discipleship is not a competition. The true focus should not be “What about them?” but “Am I following Christ faithfully?” Peace begins when we stop measuring our lives by someone else’s story.

John’s testimony at the end of the Gospel also reminds us of the greatness of Jesus. The world cannot fully contain the depth of His love, mercy, wisdom, and power. Every healing, every miracle, every act of compassion reveals only a glimpse of who He truly is. Even today, Jesus continues to work in ways beyond human understanding. He changes hearts, restores families, strengthens the weak, comforts the grieving, and gives hope to those who feel lost.

For individuals, this Gospel invites us to trust God’s personal plan. Some are called to lead, others to serve quietly. Some experience fast victories, while others walk through long seasons of waiting. None of these journeys are less valuable in God’s eyes. Faithfulness matters more than recognition. A quiet act of kindness, a sincere prayer, or a humble sacrifice can have eternal impact.

For the world, this message is deeply needed. Society often encourages rivalry, envy, and self-promotion. Nations compete for power, businesses compete for wealth, and people compete for attention. But the way of Christ is different. Jesus teaches humility, trust, and love. A better world begins when people stop trying to outshine one another and instead focus on serving with sincerity.

The ending of John’s Gospel leaves us with wonder. Even after centuries, people across the world continue to encounter Jesus personally. His story is still changing lives because His presence is alive and active. No human words can fully describe His greatness, yet every faithful believer becomes a living testimony of His love.

Today, Jesus calls us to stop comparing, remain faithful, and continue following Him with courage. Your path may not look like anyone else’s, but God walks with you personally. Trust His direction, fulfill your mission with love, and remember that the story of Christ continues through every life surrendered to Him.

Go here to read further Gospel reading.