Friday, June 29, 2018
TODAY'S REFLECTION-FRIDAY
Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, apostles
Acts 12:1-11/Psalm 33:2-9/2Timothy 4:6-8,17-18/ Matthew 16:13-19.
WHAT IS MY CONTRIBUTION?
Beloved, two "pillars" or "lanterns" of the Church, Saints Peter and Paul, different personalities, left an indelible mark in the foundation and growth of Holy Mother Church. Simon means "hearing". Peter means "rock". Saul means, "ask for" or "demand". Paul means, "little" or "small". Peter was from Bethsaida, Paul from Tarsus. Peter was a fisherman, Paul was a tent maker. Peter was called at the sea shore of Galilee, Paul was called on the road to Damascus. Peter denied Jesus, Paul persecuted Jesus. Peter [primarily] ministered to the Jews, Paul [primarily] ministered to the Gentiles. Peter was crucified upside-down, Paul was beheaded.
Based on how Peter bore witness to Jesus, he was arrested and imprisoned but was miraculously released, when the Christian community prayed fervently on his behalf. After Peter's miraculous release (Acts 12:1ff), he was eventually crucified upside-down. Paul took over (Acts Chapter 13 to 28) and became a great missionary to the Gentiles. He had his own share of suffering (2 Corinthians 11:24-27), until he was beheaded and got the crown of glory. Both apostles rose from grass to grace.
Friends, despite the ups and downs of Peter's personality, he was appointed the head of the twelve apostles and the Church as a whole. He was given the keys of the kingdom of heaven, with the power to loose and bind. The Pope is the successor of St. Peter as the head of the Church. Regarding the spread of the Good News, witnessing to the faith, defending the Church, etc, Peter did his part. Paul did his part. What about me? What about you?
Let us pray for the grace to do our part with regards to bearing witness to our Christian faith. May we be true and faithful disciples and missionaries wherever we find ourselves. BE BLESSED.
Fr. Gaa (0206854323/0240308878)