Kulandai Albert csc –
Readings: Acts 12:1-11; 2 Tim 4:6-8, 17-18; Mt 16:13-19
Today, the universal Church celebrates the feast of St. Peter and St. Paul, the Apostles. The liturgy of the word invites us to introspect: who is Jesus for us? In the first reading, the king Herod killed James, the brother of John, and arrested Peter and put him in prison. But St. Peter was miraculously saved by the angel from the prison. Later he proclaimed to all what he had experienced.
In the second reading, St. Paul gives his final word and personal instructions. He himself is a
witness to the risen Christ, whom he discovered. He proclaimed his experience of the risen Christ in his mission and ministry.
In the gospel reading, Jesus himself asked the disciples: who do people say that the Son of Man is? He wanted to know what the people perceived him as. With the help of the heavenly Father, St. Peter discovered who Jesus was for him. Later, in his ministry he was courageous enough to face all struggles and tribulation.
As a follower of Jesus, it is important to know who Jesus is for oneself. When we realize who Jesus is, we will live and follow the teachings of Jesus in our life. In this instant world, where all things are available instantly, people want even God’s blessings instantly. But it does not work that way.
Therefore, there are lots of difficulties in following the values of Jesus. But it is easy when we realize and understand who Jesus is for oneself. When we discover Jesus in us, we see Jesus everywhere and live the life of Jesus in our daily life. So, let us pray for the grace that
we may discover who Jesus is for us.