Friday May 22, 2026

John 21:15-19

Jesus showed himself to his disciples, and after they had eaten he said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these others do?’ He answered, ‘Yes Lord, you know I love you.

Today I commemorate 22 years of being a priest. On May 22. 2004, I was ordained a priest by Archbishop Kelly of the Archdiocese of Louisville. I have to say that things have not gone according to plan but in a weird and twisted way God has made a way. For when God ordains, God sustains. Somehow he has carved out a ministry for me and I have to tell you if it wasn’t for Him, Rabbouni would have closed in no time. Yet God has so blessed us that this Sunday we are celebrating a Confirmation of 7 teenagers and our ministry is stronger than ever. Truly you should come see the miracle of Rabbouni. You don’t have to join us, just come experience how it feels to sit in God’s blessings.

Do you love me? Imagine Jesus asking you this question. Do you love me? Will you trust me? It is a scary thing to completely love the Lord especially in the times of St Peter. St. Peter avoids the question. We do not get this translation or avoidance in the English language. But our Lord asks, do you have Agape for me? Peter responds, yes I have Filia, for you. Translated, do you have self sacrificing love for me? Yes I have only friendship love for you. Like a politician St Peter finds a way to answer the question he wants not the question he is asked.

What scares you the most about trusting? For me, it’s not knowing if things will pan out. Not knowing if anyone will show up at Rabbouni, yet with our team we set the table. Year after year we do not know if we will have enough money to cover our expenses and yet year after year we have a surplus. Someone please explain this to my stubborn self.