In the Gospel reading we see Peter boldly profess that Jesus is ‘the Messiah’, the Son of the living God. This revelation was given to him by God. It can be seen as God’s preparation of Peter’s heart for ministry and leadership. Jesus responds, ‘You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church.’ These profound words of the Lord remind us that the church was built on that proclamation of Jesus being the Messiah and the Son of God. As believers we call the body of Christ, built upon that very foundation, “The Church”. As we reflect on the first reading, we could wonder, ‘did Peter ever imagine the sufferings he was about to witness, of Christ and what he himself were to endure’? The moments of his encounters with Jesus of Nazareth, in both victories and failures alike may have prepared him to know the Messiah deeply and draw near to him in love. Perhaps those moments shaped him to be the leader he was, and ultimately to give up his life.

PRAYER: Abba Father, help us reach the ultimate purpose of our lives, having the end in mind which is Christ’s crown of glory. Amen.