Twenty Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (09.15.2024)

Scripture contains many important questions. Chief among them is the one Jesus asks today, “Who do you say that I am?” How we answer that question goes to the heart of our faith. 

In the first reading, Isaiah declares his trust in God to uphold him. He speaks about the suffering servant of the Lord who has his total trust in God even in times of trial and persecution. In the second reading, James explains the necessity of works to accompany and demonstrate faith. Faith and work should go together. Faith without works is dead. In the Gospel, Peter professes his faith in Jesus as the Christ. Jesus predicts his passion, then explains to Peter and the disciples that they must follow him. Even though Peter professes his faith in Jesus, he could not accept the fate Jesus foretold for himself. In fact, Peter rebuked Jesus when he predicted he would suffer and die. Peter, innocently, wanted to stop the plan of salvation, thinking that he knew a better way.

In his deep faith in Christ, Peter finally came to embrace the truth of Jesus’ words: whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. Peter declares Jesus to be the Messiah.

As we hear this Gospel, it is good for us to ask what we believe about Jesus. Do we see him as a prophet? Can we truly believe in the reconciliation offered through his cross and resurrection? Are we happy to confess that he is the Christ but unable to follow him?

Like Peter, we too are not perfect disciples, and he knows this. Though we have faith, sometimes we think first of what we want – what feels good and safe – rather than thinking of what God wants. We must let go of our way and accept God’s way. It may seem risky and uncertain. But God invites us to trust. If we follow Jesus, he will guide us. He will teach us what to do and how to follow him. 

God is near and here, upholding us. He is our help, present to us in his Words and in the Eucharist. Let us be nourished by these to accept Jesus as our Messiah and follow him in faith.