Jesus said that He would found His Church on the Rock, Peter. Jesus entrusted to Peter the keys of the kingdom of heaven (Mt 16:18-19). Jesus has been consistent with that statement. In the last chapter of the four Gospels, Jesus asks Peter three times: "Do you love Me?" (see Jn 21:15-17) He chose Peter to be the preacher of Pentecost (Acts 2:14) and the first preacher to the Gentiles (Acts 10:5ff). Jesus anointed Peter with such healing power that the masses were healed merely by Peter's shadow falling on them (Acts 5:15-16). Peter continues to be an important part of God's plan, especially through his successors, the Popes. The early Church needed Peter, and the present Church does as well. Peter was the leader of the first Pentecost. Do you think it will be different this Pentecost? Jesus is the same today as He was yesterday (Heb 13:8). His calls are irrevocable (Rm 11:29). Jesus doesn't change His plans; He continues them. Peter, the Pope, and Pentecost continue to go together. To receive the Holy Spirit in fullness, listen to and obey the Pope, as the early Church listened to Peter at the first Christian Pentecost. Listen to the Pope about repentance, conversion, holiness, purity, lifestyle, birth control, family, and community. In obeying Peter's successors, you obey Jesus Who chose them (see Lk 10:16). Then you receive the Holy Spirit, Who is "given to those that obey" Jesus (Acts 5:32).One Bread, One Body
<< Friday, May 17, 2013 >>
Pentecost Novena - Day 8
Acts 25:13-21
View ReadingsPsalm 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20
John 21:15-19
PENTECOST AND THE POPE
"...Peter was to glorify God." —John 21:19
Prayer: Father, may I love to be submissive to the authority You have established. Come, Holy Spirit!
Promise: "When Jesus had finished speaking He said to him, 'Follow Me.' " —Jn 21:19
Praise: Dan harbored resentment for many years against his stern, unloving father. Jesus softened both of their hearts and now they are close.