By Deanna Bartalini

 

 

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” ~ Matthew 16:15

Today is the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, two great saints who gave of themselves to death to spread the Good News and build up the Church. Today’s readings give us a picture of the men they were and how they served.

Names of Jesus

Today’s Gospel allows us to see St. Peter’s enthusiasm for and dedication to Jesus and ponder our answer to the question, “Who do you say that I am?” Throughout scripture, there are beautiful words that tell us who Jesus is; Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace, Redeemer, Savior, and Son of God. They all speak to our souls in different ways, depending on what we need at the moment.

An Invitation

Consider the question that Jesus poses to Peter as if Jesus were standing in front of you, posing it to you. What is your answer? And then, once you have that answer, ask this question – how does that play out in your daily life?

For years I thought of Jesus as my friend, the big brother I didn’t have and a much better brother than the ones I did! He was there next to me, loving me, caring for me, and being my friend. But somehow, I twisted His love and became judgmental toward others, deciding that Jesus did not love them. And sometimes, I let my friends know that. Thankfully, they looked past that part of my personality and focused on my better qualities.

Now, I know who Jesus is more completely. He loves me, and out of that love, He calls me into a deep relationship with Him and to love and serve others. One word to describe who Jesus is to me is Redeemer. So in my life, I work in ministry to help others know they too are redeemed and called into a relationship with Jesus.

Prayer

Jesus, you are the great I AM, the Messiah. Please help me to know you more fully each day to love and serve you more completely. Amen.

Call to Action

Today, allow who Jesus is to you to show in your interactions with others.

 

 

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