Peter's proclamation lives in us today
by Renae Bauer
Like a good teacher, Jesus doesn’t simply tell the disciples who He is; rather, He poses a question that challenges them to think about it. As we all know, Peter’s reply is God-inspired: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” In response, Jesus declares Peter to be blessed, the holder of the keys to heaven, and the rock on which the church will be built.
Are Peter’s words our words? Yes! As faithful followers, we, too, are to be keys that lead others to unlock the truth; we are to be rocks that strengthen the unshakable foundation of God’s love for us. Those rocks are our thoughts, words and actions. Consider the image below. What do you think Jesus is asking His disciples to think, say and do in His name?
"Be keys that lead others to unlock [doors of] truth."
"Be rocks that strengthen the unshakable foundation of God’s love for us."
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These are great images to pray with, Renae. Thank you so much for offering them.
'Doors of truth' can be found in Science, the Arts - including music, dance, poetry - the Bodies of Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Geology, Archeology. In fact, what Luke tells us in the story of JESUS' entry into Jerusalem, becomes more and more true as archeologists and historians discover and piece together Peoples and Times Past. [Luke 19: 37-40, below]
"...The whole multitude of his disciples began to praise God aloud with joy ... Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.”
[JESUS] said in reply, “I tell you, if they keep silent, THE STONES, THEMSELVES, WILL CRY OUT!”
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"What do you think Jesus is asking...?"
As JESUS is spending time with his listeners, learners, and followers, he is preparing them for his final and ultimate command, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses ...to the end of the earth” [Acts 1:8]
We, too, are "witnesses," those who tell of God's Saving Love whenever we: 1) share our stories, 2) practice loving kindness, 3) learn the causes of social sins like racism, prejudice, poverty, hunger, homelessness, and 4) act to prevent or 'correct' these.
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Well done, 'teacher Renae.' In the example of JESUS, you have asked us heart-felt, thought-provoking questions. :) "Deo Gratias!" "Praise and honor to you, LORD, JESUS, Christ!"