Who is Jesus for Me?

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time: August 27, 2023

Readings: Isaiah 22:15, 19–23; Psalm 138:1–3, 6, 8; Romans 11:33–36; Matthew 16:13–20

   To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/2mYgeJ0nUPc

We develop a relationship with the person based on the person's characteristics. If the person's way of thinking and acting pleases us or is in close connection with us then we might develop a friendship with that person. Friendship or acquaintance is not cultivated overnight. It takes time and energy. It needs patience and witness. The liturgical readings for this 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time of the Year invite us to look at the aspect of our relationship with Jesus. Having lived with his 12 disciples day in and day out, Jesus asks them who he is for them? What does it mean for them to have Jesus amidst them? Perhaps the answer of Peter the Apostle should be ours too. Peter's declaration of faith in Jesus also entails a great responsibility of guiding the Church. 

1. Identity determines the relationship

Let's begin with the Gospel of Matthew 16:13–20. Jesus poses a question about his identity to his disciples. This question is not only crucial for the disciples at that time but continues to be relevant for all believers today. It challenges us to reflect on who Jesus is in our lives. The question is simple but straightforward: “But who do you say that I am?” Perhaps it might have been easy for the disciples to answer as Jesus lived with them with flesh and blood. They had seen his miracles and his rhetoric had mesmerized them. Still, Jesus wanted to know the perception of his disciples. Jesus is extremely happy with the answer from his disciples. The familiarity of his disciples had made them his beloved disciples. 

The answer of Peter, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” comes straight from the heart. Jesus commends his answer. Jesus feels that Peter has understood him thoroughly. As an appreciation, Jesus has very kind words to him including bestowing the role of leader to his group. Peter's profound declaration about Jesus as the Son of the living God becomes a turning point in his life. This confession sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus' mission and the foundation of the Church. Even in our life too, opening ourselves to infinite possibilities is a must. This comes only when we open ourselves to others as Peter did. 

2. Relationship is built upon mutual appreciation

Jesus tells Peter that upon this rock, he will build his church, and he will give Peter the keys to the kingdom of heaven. This symbolic language signifies Peter's role as a foundational figure in the early Christian community, but it also points to the authority given to the Church to bind and loose on earth. We are always in search of meaning. Like the disciples, deep within us there is a thirst to embark on a spiritual journey searching for meaning and truth in our lives. Jesus' question challenges us to contemplate who he is to us personally and how that understanding shapes our faith journey.

It is not sufficient just to live our faith without being convinced about the person of Jesus.  Peter's confession is a model of a sincere and heartfelt declaration of faith. Unless and until we realize the person of Jesus in our lives we may not be able to declare Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. Such a confession is the foundation of a deep and meaningful relationship with Him. As members of the Church, we must acknowledge that this Church is founded on the truth of Jesus' identity, and it is our responsibility to uphold and proclaim this truth. Therefore, each one is called to do his or her might to build this Church as responsible individuals and communities. 

3. Called to a relationship with God with awe and wonder 

St Paul writing to Romans 11:33–36, questions his fellow believers “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” For Paul, God's plan of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles is visible. Everyone is included in the plan of God through faith in Christ.  Paul's exclamation, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!" reflects the profound mystery of God's ways. It acknowledges that human understanding is limited when it comes to comprehending the infinite wisdom and knowledge of God. The passage speaks to the inscrutable nature of God's judgments and paths. It suggests that God's ways are beyond human scrutiny and comprehension, emphasizing that His plans are often far more profound and intricate than we can fathom.

Therefore Paul invites us to approach God with humility and reverence. Recognizing the depth of God's wisdom and knowledge should lead us to acknowledge our limited understanding and trust in His divine guidance, even when we can't fully grasp His plans. In fact, contemplating the greatness of God should naturally lead us to worship Him with a sense of wonder and reverence. It's a reminder that our faith journey involves both intellectual understanding and heartfelt worship. As we grapple with life's complexities and uncertainties, this passage encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty. Even when we cannot understand why certain things happen, we can have confidence that God's wisdom is at work, and His ultimate plan is for the good of those who love Him.

Questions for reflections:

1. What significance does Peter's confession of Jesus as "the Christ, the Son of the living God" have for me and my faith journey?
2. In what ways do I actively participate in building and strengthening my faith community, much like Peter's role in the early Christian Church?
3. How does my understanding of Jesus' identity affect my relationships, decisions, and priorities in life?

Prayer based on Psalm 138

Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude and praise. You have shown Your steadfast love and faithfulness to me, even in the midst of challenges and trials. Your name, O Lord, is above all, and I exalt You with all my being. I give thanks for Your unfailing love, which has been a constant presence in my life. Your promises are my refuge and strength, and I trust in Your word.

In moments of doubt, I remember Your unwavering faithfulness, and my heart is strengthened. You have answered my prayers and provided me with the courage to face each day. May Your love continue to guide me, and Your hand sustains me through all of life's journeys. Help me to walk in Your ways, knowing that You will perfect all that concerns me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

August 25, 2023