Agapas Me

Mary and Peter

"Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted." -- Mt 5:4

During the Presentation of baby Jesus at the temple, our blessed mother, Mary, is told by Simeon: "Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." Lk 2:33-34

From Mary's Fiat (i.e. "May it be done to me according to your word" Lk 1:38), we know that Mary accepted the sword that pierced her soul, the crucifixion of her Son, Jesus Christ.

How different this is from Simon Peter's story. He denies Christ three times. And then he is given a chance to state his love of Christ three times. But I sense that our impetuous and impatient (Mt 16:13-23, Lk 9:33, Jn 13:36-38) Peter is not ready to accept his fate. So the Risen Christ tells him, "Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when he had said this, he said to him, "Follow me." (Jn 21:18-19)

Today I went to Our Lady of the Annunciation Melkite Cathedral for Liturgy (i.e. the Eastern Catholic way of saying "going to Mass"). It is during the Annunciation that Mary proclaims her Fiat.

Later this day, I was emcee for Birthright of Hudson-Marlboro's 30th anniversary celebration. People were kind enough to say that I did a good job, but I realize that I need to work on my impatience, that nervous need to get off the stage NOW. I know that once I accepted the moment, and desired that it last as long as it need last, the nervous stage fright left me. Perhaps, next year, if Birthright "hires" me, I will do a better job.

It seems that things are going according to the Lord's plan. Pax vobiscum.

Posted by Bob at November 5, 2006 11:52 PM