It is 22nd February 2021. We celebrate the Feast of the Chair of St Peter, Apostle.
The readings are from 1 Peter 5:1-4; and the Gospel from Matthew 16:13-19.
“Be an example that the whole flock can follow.” (1 Pet 5:3). This is the invitation to an individual, a family and the community. To lead means to emulate the example of Christ the Shepherd by being the witness to the suffering, not to please some human agencies and institution but God alone. Money and power changes our outlook and perception even our interactions. An authentic service in humility never goes after money, fame and vested power. This feast is a reminder during the Lent to be like the Good Shepherd. Recognizing and acknowledging Jesus in all we say and do is the example we need to leave for the rest to follow. Our undying enthusiasm to serve the Lord even if the flock is ungrateful, resisting, noncooperative, and irresponsible. To boss over someone is alien to our Christian culture of loving and leading others.
The responsorial Psalm praises, “ The Lord is my shepherd: there is nothing I shall want.” (Ps.23:1).
We may wonder what was so special in St. Peter that made the Lord to entrust the keys of the kingdom of God? It is none other than his confession of faith in the Son of God and humility coupled with courage to profess and lead others to the same Lord and Saviour. In every one of us, Jesus sees so much of potency to believe and behave in a way that others could emulate. That is why St. Paul was bold enough to say, “Copy me as I copy Christ himself.” (1 Cor.11:1).
Lent is the time to copy Christ and to lead an exemplary life. May the Lord help us to be generous towards the others, especially our families and communities. Have a lovely day. God bless you.