St. John was the son of Zebedee and brother of James. Yet in today's Gospel, he is not called by name. Instead he is referred to according to his relationship to Christ, he is "the one whom Jesus loved."

We hear that John sees the linen wrappings in the tomb and believes. How could this be enough for him to believe in Jesus' victory over death? John has not yet seen Jesus risen or alive and yet, somehow, he believes.

With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, John would go on to write about his experiences. In today's readings, John explains that he and his companions have personally witnessed Jesus as a real and tangible man. They have experienced his love personally. They want to share this revelation with us, so that we too may believe and receive eternal life.

Deep in his heart, John recognized himself as a person whom Jesus loved deeplyˇKand this inspired him. His writings and witness flow from his personal relationship with Christ.

Do I recognize myself as Jesus' beloved?