Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles: Saturday 29th June 2019

This was a time of great persecution of the church. James was killed and then Peter was arrested during the Passover season — just like Jesus. Peter was put in chains and was guarded very well. But in the night an angel surprised Peter and helped him escape. Once Peter was safe, the angel left. How surprised the guards must have been when they awoke and found Peter gone.

This was indeed a miracle! God had saved Peter to continue to witness about Jesus. Paul was preparing for his own death. He had done the right things. He felt that he had kept the faith and would be rewarded for this as would everyone who was faithful. Since the Lord had rescued him on other occasions so that he could continue to witness, he knew that the Lord would continue to be with him forever.

This is the consolation that is offered to all who follow faithfully. Jesus asked the disciples who people were saying that he was. There were various responses — Elijah, Jeremiah, John the Baptist. Then Jesus asked the question that he asks of each of us: “Who do you say that I am?” Peter was certain that Jesus was “the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Only God could have revealed that truth to Peter.

Today we remember that Peter was the rock on whom Jesus built his church and Paul was the apostle chosen by Christ to take the gospel to the Gentiles.

Lord, help me to serve you faithfully as did Saints Peter and Paul.