The question echoes through time, "Who do you say that I am?" It's a question posed not just to the disciples then, but to each of us today. Who is Jesus for you?
The Faithful Saints
The saints, those who dedicated their lives to holiness, offer us profound answers. They saw Jesus not as a distant figure, but as the Way, the Truth, and the Source of all life. He was the light that illuminated their hearts, guiding them to love and serve others. Their lives were transformed by this belief, and they modeled humility and compassion, reflecting Jesus's own heart.
The Faithful Family
In families, where love and service are meant to flourish, we can look to the example of St. Francis, who, inspired by Jesus’s love for the poor, embraced a life of poverty and simplicity. His example shows us how families can prioritize the poor and marginalized, choosing selfless service over material gain. Mother Teresa, who saw Jesus in the faces of the poor, devoted her life to serving those in need. Her example challenges us as families to recognize Christ in the suffering around us, to share our love and resources with those who are hurting.
The Faithful Famous
Even those in the dazzling world of celebrity have found solace and strength in Jesus. Albert Einstein was "enthralled by the luminous figure of the Nazarene." Napoleon declared Jesus's empire founded on love, unlike any earthly empire built on force.
For celebrities like Denzel Washington, faith is a guiding force, inspiring him to use his platform to uplift others. Carrie Underwood finds comfort and guidance in her faith, weaving it into her music. Justin Bieber, amidst fame's challenges, has found forgiveness and purpose in Christ.
But let us remember, brothers and sisters, that true faith is not about fame or recognition. It's about "ordinary faithfulness," living out Christ's love in everyday moments. It's about humility, service, and seeking God's will, not personal glory.
The Faithful Journey
The saints knew this well. They understood that faith is an active, transformative journey. It’s not something we simply receive, but something we must live out. They embraced their roles as saints, sinners, and sufferers. They knew that suffering is part of the Christian experience and that even Jesus, the perfect Son of God, had to endure suffering. In our families, we may face struggles and challenges, but it is through those struggles that we are called to live out Christ’s love.
So, who is Jesus for you, for your family? Let His love transform you, guide you, and empower you to be a beacon of faith in the world.
Amen.
- Father David's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and the Rosary at the 30-minute mark) on the Family Rosary YouTube page.
- To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)
.jpg "Father Pinto Paul, C.S.C.")