Summer Ordinary Time 2008

by Kay Murdy

Liturgical Spirituality

KAY MURDY

Saints Peter and Paul, June 29 
Acts 12:1–11; Ps 34; 2 Tim 4:6–8,17–18; Mt 16:13–19

    Everyone needs heroes, larger than life examples of courage and fortitude to give guidance for our lives. Two preeminent models are Saints Peter and Paul. These apostles and martyrs shed their blood so that God’s word could be proclaimed throughout the world. Through their leadership the church grew, not only in size but in faith and love. Peter was a rock upon which Christ could build his church, and Paul was Christ’s messenger to the ends of the earth. 
    Time and again Peter and Paul were arrested for their testimony to the Gospel, and both died as sacrificial victims of the world’s lust for power and might. When Peter was jailed, the church gathered to pray on his behalf. Though God intervened to release him from his chains, opposition did not cease. When Paul was imprisoned, Christ stood by him to give him strength. In the same manner, Paul encourages the church to run a good race. The prize is not a perishable laurel wreath but the imperishable crown of salvation. All who follow the ways of these heroes will be brought safely to God’s kingdom. 
    For Reflection: How do Peter and Paul inspire me to follow my call? Am I willing to preach the Gospel no matter what the cost? ML (Reprinted from ML Vol 30 No 4)

Kay Murdy has a master's degree in religious studies from Mount St. Mary's College in California. A master catechist,  she is a founding member of the teaching and coordinating team of the Catholic Bible Institute cosponsored by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and Loyola Marymount University.