August 21, 2011
21st Sunday Ordinary Time
Simon is the original "Rocky." When Simon, inspired by God, reveals that Jesus is the Messiah, Jesus gives him the name "Rocky" in Aramaic; rendered "Peter" in English. "Simon -- you are Rocky and upon this Rock I will build the Church." Jesus choosing Peter is part of God's inscrutable plan but from a human point of view, Peter has natural leadership qualities. He runs a fishing coop at the Sea of Galilee. He often speaks up and is a spokesperson for the group. He leads by word and action. He is part of the inner circle of disciples. He is present at key moments in the public ministry of Jesus. But Peter is also flawed. Correctly he sees Jesus as the Messiah but then he refuses to accept Jesus' understanding of the mission entrusted to him. He jumps in the water to come to Jesus and then sinks. At the end he even denies knowing Jesus. After each disappointment and personal failure, Jesus still puts faith in Peter. Jesus gives Peter an office of pastoral leadership "the keys" that solidifies and continues the life and work of Jesus after his death and resurrection. Peter comes to realize that "knowing" Jesus entails touching the cross. In the Gospel of John the last words spoken by the Risen Lord are to Peter: "Follow me!"
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20th Sunday Ordinary Time
