GOD’S WORD FOR THE DAY (based on Catholic Liturgical Readings)
DATE: 29TH JUNE 2016
SOLEMNITY OF SAINTS PETER AND PAUL
1ST READING: Acts 12:1-10
PSALM: Psalm 34:2-9
2ND READING: 2Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18
GOSPEL: Matthew 16:13-19
THEME: POURED OUT AS A LIBATION
Pouring of libation is not limited to traditional religions in Africa. In the Jewish sacrificial system, the pouring of libation (drink offering) was also practiced (cf. Ex. 29:40, Nb. 28:7).
In today’s second reading, Paul uses the imagery of libation and writes, “As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2Tim 4:6-8).
The choice of Paul’s words in the above text speaks volume of his understanding of the ministry entrusted to him. It was a sacrificial ministry – an act of laying down one’s life. He gave his all for the cause of the Gospel and died as a martyr.
Peter also offered his life completely for the cause of the Gospel. In the Gospel text for today, Jesus tells him, “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it” (Mt 16:18). Peter, together with the early Christian community suffered a lot on account of their faith but they were ready to pour out their lives as a libation. For example, our First Reading offers us an account of the imprisonment of Peter and his subsequent deliverance. His apostolate was one of sacrifice. Like Paul, he sealed this sacrifice with the heroic act of martyrdom.
More than ever we need that spirit of selflessness in our Churches today. There are a good number of Christians today who focus more on what they can get rather than what they can offer. In fact there are some who have turned the Church into a business venture and are making millions of money for their pockets. Yes the labourer deserves to be paid (cf. 1Tim 5:18) but as we celebrate the solemnity of St. Peter and St. Paul may we emulate their good examples and offer our lives selflessly as a sweet smelling sacrifice to God.
Lord Jesus, you gave your all without counting the cost. May I also give my all without counting the cost. Amen
Fr. Andrews Obeng, SVD
DIVINE WORD MISSIONARIES
BIBLICAL PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Ghana Province)