Today the Church celebrates Saints Peter and Paul.  These two men had a profound impact on the early Church.  Both Peter and Paul were leaders in the infant Church. 

Unlike Peter, Paul did not have the privilege of knowing Jesus when Jesus walked the earth.  However, it is clear from Paul’s writings that he truly knew and loved Jesus.  Jesus was not an abstract person to Paul.  For Paul, Jesus was alive and present to him.  

Is Jesus truly alive for us?  In many ways, we are like Paul: we were not alive when Jesus was on this earth.  Yet, we have Jesus’ teachings and we have the Gospels.  We also have the opportunity to come to know Jesus just as Peter, Paul, and the apostles did, as Mary Magdalene did.  However, if we wish to know Jesus, we need to ponder His words, His love, and His actions.

On this feast of Peter and Paul, Jesus asks His followers: “Who do people say that I am?”  They gave him various replies: John the Baptist, a prophet, even Elijah.  However, Jesus then asks them: “But who do you say I am?” Today, Jesus is also asking us: “Who do you say that I am?”

Today let us  sit quietly with Jesus’ question.  Relax, be still and be patient.  Allow your response come from deep within.    Sit patiently and eventually you will hear Jesus voice or sense His presence with you!   Cherish this sacred time with Jesus!