Today’s Catholic Reflection
King Herod targeted the Church, resulting in the death of James and the imprisonment of Peter. The Church prayed earnestly for Peter's safety. On the night before his trial, an angel came to him in his cell. The angel woke him and told him to get up and follow. Peter, unsure if it was real, obeyed and slipped past the guards, realizing he had been saved by God.
In his letter to Timothy, Paul reflects on his journey. He speaks of fighting the good fight and maintaining his faith. He looks forward to a reward from the Lord for his steadfastness. Paul recognizes the strength and protection he received from the Lord during his ministry. In the Gospel, Jesus asks his disciples who they think he is, and Peter boldly declares him as the Christ. Jesus affirms Peter's words and establishes him as the cornerstone of the Church, promising it will stand firm against all trials.