Today is the Third Sunday of Easter, when the Gospel reading is John’s account of the risen Jesus meeting with his disciples at the lakeside. They key to this narrative concerns the way in which the disciples eventually recognised Jesus for who he is. Jesus was recognised in one of the very ordinary events of life, having breakfast. Yet this ordinary event takes on a new significance when Jesus takes the bread and gives it to them. Here after the resurrection is clear continuity with the way things were before the crucifixion.
For those of you who wanted to do some thinking and preparation for today’s service during the preceding week, I invited reflection on the image of having breakfast. In today’s picture from their book, Bread, Aled and Sian are having their breakfast at home.
Risen Lord,
you made yourself known to the disciples
by the Sea of Tiberias.
Come among us now
and make yourself known to us,
as we share with you in the breaking of bread;
for you are our God,
now and for ever.
Amen.
Next week, the Fourth Sunday of Easter, the Gospel reading is John’s account of Jesus’ relationship with his followers. Jesus is the good shepherd whose sheep hear and know his voice. The image to help us prepare for next week’s theme is sheepdog. You can find out more about that theme by looking at the Educational Resources and the Preparation Resources.
Prayer Requests
Would you like to submit a prayer request? You can do so through the Prayer for Liverpool website.
Notice Sheet
Would you like to sign up to receive the Cathedral’s weekly notice sheet? You can do so here.
Second Sunday of Easter – Exploring the Sunday Gospel