Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, priest
(I Corinthians 7:25-31; Luke 6:20-26)
As Jesus says to his disciples in today’s gospel, St. Peter
Claver no doubt said to African slaves, “’Blessed are you poor…’” The slaves may have wondered if he were
ridiculing them. But they would have
been convinced when Peter not only preached to the slaves, he helped them. He gave them food and medicine and defended
them from their slave masters. They were
blessed by Peter’s selfless work on their behalf.
The beatitudes in Luke’s gospel are fewer and more focused
than those in Matthew’s. Jesus speaks exclusively
to those who are suffering – the poor, the weeping, the hungry, and the
persecuted. They are blessed because he,
the Lord, has arrived to assist them. His
companionship is more valuable than gold.
His love will turn their tears into laughter. And he will feed them with food that gives
eternal life.
In these days of racial tension, we need to look to Peter
Claver for inspiration and intercession.
As he descended into the holds of ships to care for sick slaves, let us
go out to persons of different races, creeds, and backgrounds. As a Jesuit, Peter Claver belonged to the
Company of Jesus. Surely, he will beseech
his companion to help us help others if we ask him.
