This is the same Gospel story we will hear again in two weeks: today it’s Mark’s version; later this month we will hear the evangelist Luke’s memory of this same event.
We read: Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Messiah of God.” He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. (But, what follows He agreed I could share with you. It’s part fact; a good bit fantasy – or is you might say, prayer.)
The early morning sky held promise of a beautiful sunrise. I was sitting by the lake when Jesus quietly joined me. I sensed He was inviting me into an in-depth conversation. Let’s walk a bit for our heart-to-heart exchange. Notice all the lovely things God places in our path: the trees and plants, the squirrel scurrying along clutching an acorn so big the weight is making balance a challenge. Do you hear the gleeful voices from nearby – the happy sounds of children at recess? Listen closely to the clear shrill song from above of birds welcoming the new day.
(I suggest to Jesus) “This looks like a good spot, let’s sit a spell.” Jesus is in a pensive mood. He sits quietly, pondering, staring at the water. Turning to me (and to you) with a quizzical look on His face, He asks: “What are people saying about me? Who do people say that I am?” Quiet surrounds us as I ponder my tumbling thoughts. I’m always curious to know what others say about Jesus. But, this time His question invites a personal response. At first I echo what Peter said: “You are the Messiah of God.” Probing deeper, I realize that for me, Jesus is everything. He knows me intimately. But with this question he’s asking how well I know Him. The thoughts of my heart tumble around. I turn to Him and take a hesitant chance: “Let me ask you this: Who do YOU say that I am? Why do you love me so much?” Without a second’s hesitation, Jesus smiles, shakes his head and touches my heart with his response. I needed that warm fuzzy. His message is what I will carry, treasure, nurture in all the days that follow.
May I suggest to you: Today be brave; in your private time with Jesus turn his question back to Him: “You, who do you say that I am? Why do you love me so much?” Sing your own tune for the words of our Responsorial Psalm: “I love the Lord because He heard me; because He inclined His ear to me the day I called … and freed my eyes from tears and my feet from stumbling. Alleluia!”
~Reflection by Sister Roberta Bailey, OSB, Prioress
Have a pleasant, stress-free week
Stay safe – be healthy – know peace!
