Thursday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Moses struck the rock and water flowed forth for the people in the desert. Peter – the rock – confessed his faith, and that of the Twelve, that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the eternal God. Two Rocks. Moses and Peter were two charismatic leaders, but also two weak, less-than-perfect leaders.
Moses was the one God sent to lead the people out of Egypt. He had a weak start, but one fortified and strengthened by God’s continued presence to Moses. Despite countless setbacks, Moses continued to lead the people through the desert to their Promised Land. Moses received the law of the Old Covenant on the mountain. Moses enjoyed God’s presence and blessing. In today’s account, Moses struck the rock at God’s bidding to get water. He struck the rock twice. God was not pleased with Moses for that: “you were not faithful to me in showing for my sanctity.” So Moses did not lead the people into the Promised Land.
In the Gospel, we hear once again Peter’s confession of faith “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” And Jesus’ words “you are Peter and upon this rock, I will build my church.” There is something of a parallel with Moses. Almost immediately, Peter protests as Jesus predicts his passion and death. “Get behind me Satan,” Jesus said to Peter the Rock. Despite his weakness, Jesus continued to support Peter, destined to be the leader of the Twelve, proclaim the Gospel, and eventually die a martyr’s death.
Today we see two rocks. First is the rock that produced water. The second is the rock on which the church is built. Two leaders, Moses & Peter, are each weak and flawed in their own way. Yet, each confesses the power and wisdom of God.
God has called men and women since the beginning to speak for him, to lead the people. God supported them and continues to support us now: “Do not be afraid.” With that as our promise from the God of the Old Testament, and Jesus Christ our Savior, let us be strong in responding to God’s callings to us, whatever they may be and wherever they might lead.
Reflection by Fr. Peter Ullrich, OSB
Posted in Lenten Resources