Hearing The Word

A weekly newsletter delivering context and insight into the Sunday Gospels.

Knowing is to forgive and love

~ Deacon Joseph Boyle

Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church + Media, Pa.

In today’s Gospel, Simon, Son of Jonah, is not referred to by his new name as he was in Matthew. At a different time, “You are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my Church.” (Mt 16:18). This change in name from Simon to Peter signifies a transformation in his character, from a mere follower to a leader of the Church. Our Lord does not refer to him as Peter, for when tested, the “Rock” crumbled when his faith and love in Him failed. Now in a weakened state, our Lord meets Peter where he is and knows that, as a result of his denial, he does not view himself as the leader pronounced by our Lord.

Three times, Simon, Son of Jonah, denied knowing our Lord at his Passion. And now, three times, our Lord shows forgiveness to Simon by questioning his very love for Him. In the first two instances, Jesus asks Simon if he loves him, and in the Greek translation, the verb agapao denotes a heroic, complete, and selfless love.  Simon responds by saying yes, but qualifies his response with his assertion that the Lord knows he loves him, albeit in a love found in friendship, and again in Greek, a phileo love. The third time Jesus questions Simon’s love, he mirrors Simon’s response: “Do you love (phileo) me?” This repeated act of forgiveness from our Lord towards Simon serves as a comforting reminder to all of us that His love is unconditional; no matter how many times we falter, we are always forgiven and loved by Him.

Simon is also given a directive after each affirmation of his love for Jesus.  Simon is directed to feed and tend His sheep. A shepherd, a leader, tends to, feeds, and loves their sheep. Despite his shortcomings, Simon is reminded of his role as a leader in the eyes of Jesus, and reminds us that we too, despite our imperfections, have a role to play in the journey of faith.



Our Hope is in Christ Jesus



~ Dennis M. Mueller

Saint Albert the Great Church + Huntingdon Valley, Pa.

Today’s Gospel is one that many of us recognize, and the question posed by Jesus may prompt a response similar to that of Peter. However, I find I need to often reflect on what Jesus is asking and the consequences of my answer for how I live my life.  If I affirm that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, how does my life change due to my relationship with Him? Am I embodying what I believe?

As a disciple, I confidently acknowledge Jesus as my Lord and Savior, yet I often find it challenging to live as if He truly is my Lord and Savior. My actions sometimes do not mirror my beliefs, and the last impression someone might have of me is that of Christ Jesus, the Son of the Living God. This can be quite disheartening in one’s spiritual journey, but recognizing what Jesus sees in us can be transformative.

This is the significance of today’s solemnity. It serves as a symbol of hope that the Lord can change me into something greater if I permit Him. I’m reminded that my identity is shaped not by my shortcomings and mistakes but by His love for me! Peter and Paul are regarded as foundational figures of our faith, yet both had sinful pasts. Peter denied knowing Jesus and forsook Him in His time of need. Paul actively persecuted the Church and oversaw the execution of Stephen. If they were judged solely by their sins, they would hardly be remembered, but when I consider what Jesus accomplished through both of them, I know there’s hope for me. He loved them without conditions, regardless of their serious sins, and brought them back to Himself. They were defined by His love! And so am I!

If I accept that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and if I open my self to His love, He will also transform me into the saint He has called and created me to be, equipping me with the strength to live out my belief – that He is indeed the Christ, the Son of the Living God!