Readings
I - Rev. 10: 8-11
II - Lk. 19: 45-48
DEDICATION OF THE CHURCHES OF PETER AND PAUL
Today’s Gospel passage is an invitation to reflect upon the two aspects of Jesus viz. the power of his life and the power of his words. On entering the temple, Jesus drove out those selling things in the temple and none dared to prevent nor disapprove of him for his act because such was the power of his life, a life of righteousness par excellence. In the second part of the Gospel passage of the day, we read that the crowd that listened to Jesus was spell bound at his teachings. Such was the power of his words.
Today the church celebrates the feast of the dedication of the basilicas of Saints Peter and Paul. Peter recognised Jesus in the might catch (Lk. 5:1-11) and Paul in his Damascus experience (Acts.9: 1-8). They recognised him rightly, followed him passionately and offered themselves willingly as martyrs for their faith in the Risen Lord. To mark the heroism of the two giants and the pillars of the Church and churches dedicated for them in their name for the glory of the Lord. We are the temple of God (1Cor. 6:19). Keep worthy of yourselves so that we may be befitting when Christ comes to visit us through the Scripture, persons and events. Recognising and living for him is glory to Him. May St. Peter and St. Paul, like them, help us to be effective in our words and through our lives in bearing witness to the life of Christ. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “Saints Peter and Paul pray for us”.
