Like St. Peter and the other Apostles, St. Stanislaus is an exemplary role model for courageous trust in Jesus. Born in Poland, Stanislaus lived in the 11th century and served as a priest and then bishop in Krakow. He was a gifted preacher, a compassionate benefactor of the poor, and a proponent of clerical reform. Like the Apostles, he faced opposition, in his case from the King of Poland, Boleslaus II, during his time as bishop.
And, like the Apostles, Stanislaus refused to compromise his adherence to Jesus' teachings, which resulted in his being killed during the celebration of the Mass. Stanislaus knew the risk to his life and yet held to what Peter said in today's first reading: "We must obey God rather than men."
Where do we stand? How do we connect to Peter's words and the actions of St. Stanislaus? Most likely, our words and actions will not put us on the same type of stage as these holy men, and yet each of us is confronted with decision points throughout our lives—moments when we either stand with Jesus or with someone else.
The Son of God
How do we respond, with words or actions or both, to moments when we are challenged by a person, institution, or society?
John's Gospel reminds us of Jesus' exchange with Nicodemus, which we heard earlier this week, as it begins: "The one who comes from above is above all." John helps us to remember that Jesus is not merely a successful preacher and prophet but is the Son of God who comes from above and who is God the Son.
For centuries, men, women, and even children have built their lives upon what St. Peter says to the high priest: that they must obey God rather than men because God raised Jesus from the dead. He has exalted him at his right hand to serve as leader and savior to grant (Israel) repentance and forgiveness of sins."
Live as a Disciple
Peter goes on to say, "We are witnesses of these things, as is the Holy Spirit that God has given to those who obey him." My brothers and sisters, each in our own way, are called to live as witnesses to what Peter has confessed and that we confess each time we pray the Creed.
And, when we struggle to stand with Jesus, we can call upon the Holy Spirit to strengthen us, to give us the wisdom and courage to be like St. Peter and St. Stanislaus and countless others who have had the courage to trust in Jesus' way over men.
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