Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul

Readings of the Day
RB: Ch 22 The Sleeping Arrangements for the Community
Mass: Acts 12:1-11; Resp Ps 34; 2 Tm 4:6-8, 17-18; Mt 16:13-19

Look to the Lord that you may be radiant with joy.

HEART OF JESUS, DELIGHT OF ALL THE SAINTS,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Some years ago I led a retreat at a parish in Boise, ID. Boise is a wonderful city; maybe even flatter than parts of my beloved home state of Indiana, yet with foothills on the outskirts perfect for exercise of one kind or another. The people of Boise are warm and friendly, as was the case with members of the parish. They were hospitable, open, and serious about our faith and their spiritual growth and development. In fact, I still keep in contact with some parishioners, including the pastor, a dear friend from days at Mount Angel Seminary.

Back to the retreat. It was on the great saints we celebrate today, Peter and Paul. Sadly, I am unable to locate my notes. However, I remember offering a brief biographical sketch of both men at the beginning, to provide an opportunity for participants to compare and contrast the two great saints. There is one aspect that I would like to focus on today, that is, how the Lord called the men to discipleship. Peter, with his brother Andrew, responded to something simple: Jesus saw them fishing and said: "Follow me ... immediately they left their nets and followed Him" (Mt 4:18-20).  Paul needed something a bit more drastic. Paul, then Saul, on his way to Damascus, was busy breathing murderous threats against the disciples of the Lord. Jesus had to knock Saul down with a light from the sky and speak, rather loudly I would imagine: "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" Like Peter and his brother, Saul didn't waste too much time. He listened to the voice of Jesus and did as he was told. It was not long afterwards that Saul began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues (Acts 9:1-22).

Jesus knows how to approach each and every one of us. And His approach will be different for each and every one of us. Today may be a good day to consider your call. How has Jesus called you and how does He continue to call you to follow him?

SAINTS PETER AND PAUL,
PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: How about a sprig of ocean spray to celebrate such powerful witnesses to the faith. Thanks CO.

© Gertrude Feick 2020