Acts 12:1-11 / 2 Tim 4:6-8, 17-18 / Gospel 16:13-19 (2019 / 2024)
The Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, is a liturgical feast in honour of the martyrdom in Rome of these two great saints.
The celebration is of ancient origin, and it is celebrated on this date because it either marks the anniversary of their death or of the transfer of their relics.
Yet when we read the book of the Acts of the Apostles, we may wonder why these two saints are put together in the same feastday.
Because in reality they were as different as oil and water. Yet it also not about who is above the other.
Because both men had their flaws, and even their "fights" were recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.
But both were chosen and called by Jesus for a mission and a task.
Both responded with all their hearts and even with their lives.
They had their differences but their love for Jesus rose above their human weaknesses like oil above the water.
Their feastday also tells us that although the Church may have its failings and weaknesses, yet there is also the divine calling and the outpouring of graces.
Like Sts. Peter and Paul, let us put aside our differences and open our hearts to God's graces, so that by our love and unity, we will proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord.