St. Peter

By David Weber

This Jewish fisherman is one of the most important men in history. He had the great privilege of being chosen by Jesus as the first disciple. This choice set the stage for the foundation of the Church as we know it today. 

This sinner, known as Simon Peter, Simon and Peter the Apostle, shows that Jesus truly does value forgiveness of sins. He was well aware of Peter and his sinful ways – but he also knew that there was a deep faith within this man. Enough to build his Church on. This bodes well for each of us as Jesus offers that same forgiveness. There is nothing we cannot accomplish with his love and forgiveness. 

Known by many as the first Bishop of Rome, all of the Popes are successors to St. Peter. He was crucified by Nero in the year 64 – a martyr – and was buried on Vatican Hill. The Basilica of St. Peter was built on his burial place. Quite a tribute to a man who denied Jesus three times – and found himself sinking in the sea because his faith was weak. 

The denial of Jesus – no doubt fuelled by Satan – showed all of us that sin is indeed part of our humanity. He was redeemed for this act of faithlessness and for this reason is generally thought of as a model for Christians to follow. If we sin, we need to humble ourselves in front of the Lord and ask for his forgiveness – while at the same time deepening our love for The Lord. This is exactly what St. Peter taught us. 

St. Peter was the very first to begin preaching to the gentiles. He used his unique leadership role, given to him by Jesus, to bring the Word of the Lord to many. He converted many to Christianity and lost his life by doing so. Again, he is a model for Christians in that we all have an obligation to bring the Word of the Lord to others through our prayers, words and actions. 

St. Peter shows us that great things can be accomplished – even by a simple fisherman who was a sinner. His life reminds us of all that we can accomplish ourselves through Jesus. While we may not be with him in the Holy Land – as St. Peter was – we still have the same love, grace, forgiveness and gifts available to us from him. All we need to do is to pray, be faithful and love the Lord with all of our hearts.