The Chair of St. Peter the Apostle
1 Peter 5:1-4 | Ps. 23:1-6 | Mark 16:13-19
Today is the feast of the chair of St. Peter. The readings, therefore, reflect on Peter. Jesus asks all the apostles who people say he is. It is Peter who speaks without hesitation and says: “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus makes him the head of the church.
Peter tells us that as people who are leaders of others we have the duty to do so eagerly. We are to lead others humbly, not lording it over others. We are to be examples for others. Peter became an example for others through the gift of the Spirit who enabled him to follow Christ in all things even to death on the cross.
Who is Jesus for you? What is your image of Jesus? Has your image of Jesus changed from your childhood image?
Are you willing to lead others to Christ with eagerness? Or are you ashamed to be known as a Christian? What gift do you need to ask God for in order to follow Jesus now?