Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, apostles
(Acts 12:1-11;
II Timothy 4:6-8.17-18; Matthew 16:13-19)
As we have
been told many times, martyrdom is derived from a Greek root meaning giving
witness. Martyrs give witness in a
supreme way by dying for their testimony.
However, those who give witness to the Lordship of Jesus by their words
and actions are also legitimately called “martyrs.”. Today’s readings show Saints Peter and Paul,
who died for their testimony, witnessing to Jesus with their words.
In the
gospel Peter calls Jesus, “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Christ, of course, is not Jesus’ last name
but his functional role. Jesus is God’s
anointed who wins back God’s kingdom for His people. In the second reading, Paul gives witness to
Jesus’ help both. In his mission to
Gentiles and in his personal struggle with evil Paul received Jesus’ assistance.
Beneficiaries
of the martyrdom of Peter and Paul, we likewise are to witness to Christ. We should do this every day of our
lives. We are to be patient and kind to
others. We also are to stand up for the
truth whether it be for the sanctity of human life from conception or an issue
of lesser import. In doing so, we too
can hope with St. Paul that the Lord, “will rescue (us) from every evil and
save (us) for his heavenly kingdom.”
