Today was the feast day of St. Peter and St. Paul, two men who continue to influence the world. St. Peter continues on his work as a model for each new pope that arises. St. Paul encourages us on our own roads to Damascus. Both men fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith as we hear in the Second Reading from Timothy.

In the First Reading, we hear of the martydom of James and the imprisonment of Peter. Peter was fortunate to escape death when an angel of the Lord appeared to him and released him from prison. Sometimes God rests his hands on individuals and rescues them from certain death. Other times God stands with us as the sword is driven through our hearts. Being a Christian does not assure you of the first outcome but it does mean that God is always with us.

We are all called to be rocks–solid foundations upon which others can model their lives. We may not get the keys of heaven but if we have fought the good fight, finished the race despite all hurdles, and kept our faith, we will be greeted by St. Peter when we get to those Pearly Gates.

Run, my friends, run. God is with you in the race. Keep the faith.

Peace,

Suzanne