Sunday, September 16, 2018

Bishop Barron on today's Gospel: Sunday, September 16, 2018

Sunday, September 16, 2018
Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Mark 8:27-35
Friends, today’s Gospel reports Peter’s confession of faith in the midst of the disciples, when Jesus asks that strange question: “Who do people say that I am?” What he gets by way of response is, first, a public opinion survey: John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.

Then Jesus turns to those closest to him, and he asks them, But who do you say that I am?” They are silent, afraid, unwilling, unable to speak. Finally it is Peter who speaks: You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And he gets it right. Does he get it right because he is the most intelligent? Please. Because he is holy and close to Jesus? Please. We know the whole story of Peter’s weakness, betrayal, stupidity.

It is the Father who has given Peter this insight—not Peter’s clever mind or searching heart. It is a supernatural gift, a special charism. And it is upon this inspired confession that the Church is built.




Word on Fire Catholic Ministries, PO Box 170, Des Plaines, IL 60016, United States

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