Gospel for August 27 2023 – Matthew 16:13-20
Gospel Reflections for August 27 2023
New lessons in leadership
Today’s Gospel about Jesus naming Peter as leader is just one of the reasons we have a Pope. At a time when so much attention is focused on political leaders right now, this Gospel offers a different way of leadership …and just in time.
Jesus speaks to Peter near the city of Caesarea Philippi that was built near a towering rock cliff. It gave the city the look of invincibility, power, and permanence.
As Jesus spoke, I am sure the Apostles noticed it, especially when Jesus referred to Peter as “The Rock upon whom I will build my Church.” However, they also knew Peter was anything but a “rock!” He was often mistaken, quick-tempered, and impulsive. So why choose Peter?
Jesus chose leaders not to showcase their special human talents, but to reveal the power and grace of God shining through them. This is a different kind of leadership. The not very talented Peter later let the mighty power of God work through him as our first pope.
When Bishops meet to choose a new Pope, they take a solemn oath to vote only for a candidate they sincerely believe will follow the Holy Spirit. They promise to put aside their own preferences and pray only for the choice they believe expresses the will of God. That is a very humble thing to do. They know that it must be God who leads His Church.
That is the way to judge your choices each day as well. You can impulsively jump to conclusions about what to do, or quietly pray what would more accurately reflect the will of God …and discover a better way to go. It is always humbling to put our impulses aside, but eventually more satisfying to do God’s will.
Even just a brief look at history reveals the incredible miracle that the Church is still here with its leadership style intact, given some of the leaders we have had. No other institution can make that claim. Clearly, God is in charge.
Jesus knew what He was doing beside that large rock in Caesarea Philippi. We have had our share of good and bad Church leaders and Church members too. Only the presence and power of God could ensure the Church lasted these last 2023 years.
Jesus still seeks to place your focus on His grace, His strength …and what God can powerfully accomplish through you!
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Wow Father! Loved your Gospel reflections for the 27th.
I see this so much in todays world. I love the correlation between our human talents and the ability of God to reveal the power and grace of God shining through them!
In the short time I have been reading the Bible it’s obvious (to me) that God did not, and does not, always choose Saints to get His work done..
Yes, God actually chooses every on of us, and to let His power shine through!
The Wisdom of Christ to pick Peter to be the Rock upon which the Church would be built is something to marvel at. No Degrees from a big University, not much social status or position in high society. He saw in Peter the Faith required for the task. A fisherman with imperfections like us his followers.
The Church developed and though beset by persecution and problems has existed Lo these many years spreading the word of God throughout the world. I pray that we continue to serve humanity with Truth and Light forever more. Problems will surface here and there but we have Jesus Christ as our Savior and Redeemer. Let’s Celebrate this Sunday in appreciation of all we possess.
Yes, even the powers of Hell cannot prevail against the Church!
Beautiful. Fr. Dave!
We are in this world together to be good witnesses for Jesus
in the here and now!
Well said!
Thank-You for the helpful advice. I guess
this means playing the long game.
I would like to say that if someone has
a plan that doesn’t work, then change
the plan, but never the goal.
You will find a better way that God
wants you to take.
It makes life really interesting.
God always plays the long game, which is His plan for our salvation!
Love our loving Jesus wanting us to focus on his grace and strength and accomplishing beautifully what our loving God would love us to accomplish with His loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee and guidance!!!
Thank you!
Love your beautiful words!!! and loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee Jesus seeking us to focus on his grace and strenth and what our loving God can accomplish through us!!!
Thank you!
Dear Father Dave,
Sorry for the late reply. So much to think about.
Where do we fall into the line of duty and devotion?
Hopefully with God’s help, and our own prayers for guidance, we’ll find the right path.
I remember as a child in Catholic school that if our paths were smooth, they’ were not as good as the ones that twisted and turned.
Oh my, how rocky some paths have been. Peter understood.
Jesus more than understood. When I think of His suffering and crucifixion, a great sadness silences my heart, mind, and soul. It’s unbearable but also bearable because we know the outcome. His resurrection.
I suppose that’s true with all our sufferings, which can be unbearable, and then also bearable.
Christ’s lessons of love.
God bless you.
Kathleen
You understood the Gospel well.