The chair of St. Peter the Apostle (Feast)

Theme: Words of wisdom

Today as we celebrate the feast of the chair of St. Peter, it reminds us about the Authority that was given to St. Peter by Jesus Christ himself as seen in the gospel reading of today, as the leader of the college of the Apostles and by extension the people of God. His leadership style was modelled after that of Jesus, and that is why he admonishes us in today’s 1st reading about the expectations from a leader. He encourages us to embrace the leadership model of Jesus Christ; who was a servant leader and a true shepherd. He was a leader who served the people in humility, without arrogance, selfish interest or greed. This is a message for all of us who are leaders in different ways. We must always remember that leadership is a call to service and not an opportunity to promote self-interest and exploitation; remember, there will be time to give account of our stewardship to God who gave us the opportunity.

The question of Jesus about who people say he is and who the Apostles say he is, was answered correctly by St. Peter; an answer that was divinely inspired. This is also an opportunity for us to reflect about the questions raised by Jesus. Who is Jesus to you? Your understanding of who he is will go a long way in understanding the admonition of Peter in the first reading of today. It is a re-awakening of who we are called to be as children of God.

 May God grant us the grace to promote his kingdom here on earth. Peace be with you.

 

Homily for the chair of St. Peter (Feast), by Fr. Jude Ifeanyi Ifezime, C.S.Sp