In the Beginning...

"Tell them to meet me in Galilee."

These are Jesus' words to Mary Magdalene as she comes from the empty tomb.

Everything has changed. Nothing is as expected. As she clings to Jesus, He tells her to let go, and return to the others with a message:

"We've started something new, but first we need to go back to the beginning. Back to where I called you in the first place. Back to where you dropped everything and followed Me."

When they eventually arrive there, Jesus comes to them again at the edge of the sea. Just like the first time, Simon Peter has been fishing and has again caught nothing. Jesus tells him to drop his nets and they come up filled to their limits. Once more, Peter recognizes Jesus in the abundance of his catch. (John 21:1-14)

This time, instead of falling to his knees asking Jesus to leave him, he jumps into the water, racing to reach Jesus on the shore.

Jesus is waiting for Peter with a breakfast of bread and fish, and instructions for his new mission. This one isn't much different from the old one, but there is so much more to it now. This is one that Peter willdie for, and willingly.

When our expectations of God are turned on their head, it is just as important for us to go back. When were we called? Where were we called? What made us respond? Can we hear the echoes as we return and see how we are called to a new relationship with Jesus?

As we enter Ordinary Time this week, it's a good question to ask.

Where was your beginning? Let's go back.