Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter

February 22, 2016 Mepkin Abbey

We all know about Saint Peter.

At one time, as in today’s gospel, he has clear faith and passionate devotion to Jesus.

At another time, he denies and betrays Jesus.

Jesus gives him great honor, as in today’s gospel.

He also rebukes him, as we hear just a few verses later.

I think what is attractive about Peter is his humanity.

We, or at least I, can identify him.

I am also that mix of passion and denial.

Ultimately, what I like about Peter is what we hear in the first reading.

Apparently, Peter got so in touch with his own humanity and weakness that he counselled other disciples, in this instance presbyters or priests, to be sensitive and empathetic and alert to the humanity of others.

So, he says:

Tend the flock “willingly” or enthusiastically.

Don’t relate to others by “constraint,” in other words, just out of a sense of duty.

He counsels us to minister “eagerly,” for the good and well-being of others.

Do not minister “for shameful profit,” in other words, for what’s in it for me.

Be an “example” of Christ and his sense of service and giving of himself for the other.

Do not “lord” it over others, in other words, as a cleric above the laity or whatever.

So, Peter really must have gotten in touch with himself as a person through all his experiences.

And he ends up giving very wise and spiritual counsel to all of the Church’s ministers.