Saint John, Apostle, Evangelist – Feast
Gospel – John 20:2-8
This Gospel highlights Saint John’s role as the “beloved disciple” who had a special closeness to Jesus. John demonstrates a heart open to divine mysteries and eager to embrace the truth, a powerful example for all believers. n this feast day, we honor not only Saint John’s unwavering faith but also his contributions to the Church as the Evangelist who shared profound theological insights in his Gospel and epistles. His writings emphasize the themes of love, light, and truth, encouraging us to live as children of God. The “beloved disciple” is depicted as someone who shares a uniquely close bond with Jesus. At the Last Supper, he is described as reclining close to Jesus’ chest (John 13:23), symbolizing his deep affection and understanding. This closeness highlights the kind of relationship Jesus invites all disciples to have with Him—a relationship based on love, trust, and familiarity. The beloved disciple is present at critical events in Jesus’ life: at the Cross (John 19:26-27) and at the Empty Tomb (John 20:2-8). His actions reflect a faith that is immediate and a love that is profound. The disciple’s closeness to Jesus represents the unity and communion that all Christians are called to pursue with their Savior. The role of the beloved disciple is not about exclusivity but about showing the potential of every believer to live in intimate relationship with Christ. By emulating his love, faith, and devotion, Christians are encouraged to deepen their discipleship, recognizing that they, too, are deeply loved by Jesus. In essence, the “beloved disciple” theme is an invitation to all believers to see themselves as cherished by Christ and to respond with wholehearted devotion, love, and faith. Let’s reflect: How can I deepen my relationship with Jesus today, striving to embody the faith, love, and devotion of the beloved disciple, and live as someone who truly believes and acts upon the truth of being deeply loved by Christ?
Don Giorgio