22 February 2021
Matthew 16:13-19
Feast of the Chair of St. Peter
“Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” My word! Can you imagine having a pop quiz with Jesus? As the disciples stumble through to the correct answer, it is faith that ultimately moves Peter to respond, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
It is easy to read the Bible, to read a commentary, or watch a video and recite back a lesson learned or memorized, but Jesus doesn’t ask us for book smarts. He asks whether we know him. When Peter identifies Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus know that this knowledge came from the Father (see Mt 16:17). Jesus doesn’t ask us to recite information. He asks for our hearts. He asks that we serve him like Peter served him.
If you visit the Vatican you will see a large tablet in the basilica on which are inscribed the names of all the Popes, the successor of St. Peter. They have guarded and guided the faithful since the day that Jesus built his Church upon Peter. It is fitting that we remember to pray for Pope Francis today and for all who lead the Church.
Muffy Patterson
Meditation
O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful,
look favorably on your servant Francis,
whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd;
Grant, we pray, that by word and example
he may be of service to those over whom he presides
so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care,
he may come to everlasting life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the
unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer from the US Conference of Catholic Bishops
