Daily Devotional

The question is not whether or not we will face trials, but how do we respond in such moments? Faced with the storms, the disciples expected the worst; they cried out, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” Jesus was disappointed with them not because they prayed but because they prayed with fear; that is, they were not expecting their prayers to be answered.

Today’s Solemnity also challenges us to be the best version of ourselves as we strive to follow Christ’s footsteps on earth. Peter and Paul have long since passed away, but their legacies continue to shine. Our time on earth is relatively short, but our impact can last for eternity. As to why these two saints are celebrated together, the church wishes to teach us a lesson: Being a leader does not make you higher (or superior) than your followers.

Jesus also speaks of a prophet’s reward, a righteous man’s reward and a little child’s reward. This takes us to our first reading. In appreciation for the house she built, Elisha thought of how to say “thank you”, and when Gehazi told him she had no child, Elisha assured the woman that she would embrace a son. Dear friends, the reward we get for serving God is always greater than whatever sacrifices we make.