‘Who do you say that I am?’
Today we celebrate the lives of the apostles, Saints Peter and Paul. Their transformation from deeply flawed human beings into faithful followers of Christ offers us inspiration to follow their example.
In the First Reading, Peter is consoled and rescued from prison by an angel. Despite persecution, he remains faithful to Christ.
The Psalm is a joyful celebration of one who has had their prayer answered. We can imagine Peter praying it during his time in captivity.
In the Second Reading, we find Paul reflecting back on the trials he has faced since becoming a Christian. He assures us that Christ will comfort and strengthen all those who call upon him. Paul’s determination to spread the Gospel message is why we are here today, praying together as a community built on a foundation of God’s love.
The origins of our Church are described in today’s Gospel. Simon recognises Jesus as ‘Christ the Son of the Living God’, and receives the title ‘Rock’, upon which God’s church will be built. As living stones of the Body of Christ ourselves, we pray to be inspired by this continuous outpouring of love that springs forth from Peter’s declaration of faith 2,000 years ago, and enthused to reach out to others by the example of Paul.
Just as our lives are forever united and sustained within the Body of Christ with Peter the rock, Paul the evangelist and all the Saints, let us pray for a spirit of unity and love within all the expressions of Church in the world today. May all who face persecution for their faith be strengthened in the knowledge of this unity.
