Today we concentrate on the different ways that the witness of the community of faith manifests the Lord – the apostolic witness of leadership and service that is accomplished by the various ministries within the church. While today’s gospel singles out Peter as a leader within the community, in no way does this mean that such providential care for the church is the sole responsibility of authorised leaders. Rather, it is the responsibility of all the baptised.
In their teaching and preaching, the apostles moved from one understanding of God’s presence and activity in the midst of the people to another. This new understanding had the death and resurrection of Jesus at its core. The light of the resurrection illumined their former religious convictions and aspirations, and they were undeterred in their commitment to spread this good news, this new word, this transforming light.
A martyr is a witness, one who is so committed, that that person is willing to suffer any consequence, even death, in order t o be faithful. The apostles rejoiced that they had been found worthy of ill-treatment for the sake of the name of Jesus. The Lamb who is exalted is the one who was slain, and Peter is told that, like his master, he will pay for his commitment with his life. Even the psalm alludes to the suffering that must be endured by those who have chosen to be faithful. This kind of steadfastness has always been a persuasive witness.
© Dianne Bergant CSA, https://www.liturgyhelp.com/calendar/date/2025May04/0/RefDiBer