The Chair of St. Peter: “Who do you say I am?”
Peter’s response to Christ’s question, expressed in simple yet inspired words, reveals the divinity of Christ. In a public declaration of faith Peter proclaims that this Man, who in appearance is similar to other men, is also God, the Son of the living God. What the Spirit has revealed interiorly to Peter is proclaimed with a boldness of faith. It is Peter’s trust in that interior revelation, the word of God that he hears from the bottom of his heart, which emboldens his public pronouncement. Yet it is this same Peter who denies even knowing Jesus while standing in a courtyard on that first Good Friday morning. Lord, we believe in you and proclaim your divinity; help our unbelief in times of trial and uncertainty. Spend a quiet moment and listen to God speaking to your heart.
Reading 1 — 1 Peter 5:1-4
Responsorial Psalm — Psalm 23:1-3A, 4, 5, 6
Verse Before The Gospel — Matthew 16:18
Gospel — Matthew 16:13-19
To see today’s reading, click here for USCCB Daily Readings …