Today is the twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time, and Jesus is asking us an important question, “Who do you say I am?”
In our first reading from Isaiah, Isaiah tells Shebna that he will fall out of favor, and be replaced by Eliakim, son of Hilkiah. He will be given the key to the palace. Shebna was the corrupt master of the palace who was more concerned about his wants than the people’s needs.
What is the role of the master of the palace? Why is it important? This office was first established by Solomon, who made the master of the palace second in authority after the king. The master of the palace controlled access to the king, by unlocking or locking the palace doors to those who wanted to meet with the king. In effect, he held the keys to the kingdom. This statement is paralleled in the Gospel today.
In the second reading from the Letter to the Romans, St. Paul reminds us of the incredible depth of God’s wisdom and knowledge. It is far beyond our comprehension and it has been God’s for all eternity.
All that we have comes from God. When you acknowledge the infinite depth of God’s wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and mercy, it changes your perception of life. It opens your heart to trust in God, to love Him more deeply, and to recognize Him working in your life.
In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus asks his disciples an important question, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” The disciples offered different answers. Then Jesus asked, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter responded, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” This answer is important because Peter recognized Jesus for who he truly is; the Son of God. This recognition was a gift of grace, as God opened Peter’s eyes to see the truth.
This Gospel makes many points. One of these is after Peter makes his testimony on Jesus’ identity, Jesus says, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld will not prevail against it.” In this statement, Jesus establishes Peter as the rock upon whom He will build His Church. In effect, Peter became the master of the palace, controlling access to the King. In this scripture passage, we recognize Peter’s role as the first Pope. He became the visible head of the Church, entrusted with the keys of the kingdom. This authority continues to be passed down through apostolic succession. The Church continues to have a leader providing guidance and unity.
There is another point that is made in this Gospel. Jesus asked the disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They had many responses – John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or a prophet. In other words, the people saw Jesus as a special man, but nothing more.
Then Jesus rephrased the question. “But who do you say that I am?” He redirected the question and made it personal. What do you have to say? Who do you think I am? Simon Peter had the right answer and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Peter recognized Jesus was more than a special man. Jesus transcended humanity. He truly was the Son of God.
Jesus is also asking you, “Who do you say that I am?” Who is Jesus to you? This is a personal question. A question that each of us must answer. How you answer literally impacts your spiritual life. Who is Jesus to you?
This question challenges each of us to dive into the depths of our faith and examine our personal understanding of who is Jesus. We heard Peter’s confession. But who do you say Jesus is? How you answer will depend on your relationship with Jesus. How you answer also shapes your purpose in this world.
Life is a journey of faith. From birth until death, you will travel many roads. Some will be smooth, some will be rough. You will encounter different people along the way. But the core of that faith journey is encountering Christ in others and in the process discovering who Jesus is to you. And by the grace of God, at some point, you will have a revelation. Peter’s revelation was a turning point for him, and your revelation about Jesus can be a turning point for you, leading you closer to him.
Who is Jesus to you? Take a moment and ask yourself that question. What came into your mind? Is Jesus a prophet? Is Jesus a teacher? Is Jesus a nice person? Or is Jesus Lord? Peter’s answer is a clue to us. We have to recognize that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who came to redeem us. He shows us the way to the Father. He has authority and speaks the truth. Jesus is Lord.
When you recognize, when you acknowledge, Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, you are confessing his divinity and authority in your life. You recognize and accept Jesus’ profound love for you. You understand that you have to give your best to love and serve him by embracing his teachings. Jesus taught us to love one another, to serve those in need, and to share the Good News.
This week, I invite you to meditate on this important question. Who is Jesus to you? When you recognize Jesus as Lord, that is a life-changing moment. It is a time to let go of yourself and trust in Jesus more completely. It is a call to follow the Master even closer. It is a call to live his just commands.
When we do this life changes. Life becomes more hopeful, more joyful even in difficult times. Life becomes more loving and forgiving. Your life becomes more Christ-like.
As you prepare to receive the Eucharist, reflect on this question, who do you say Jesus is? Jesus Christ is truly present in the Eucharist – body, blood, soul, and divinity. After receiving him through Holy Communion, tell Jesus who he is to you.
May God’s grace and peace be with you.
Into the Deep 