Our first Pope is full of humility:
“When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and, falling at his feet, paid him homage. Peter, however, raised him up, saying, ‘Get up. I myself am also a human being.’” Acts, chapter 10, verses 25 to 26
Even if Peter is the Pope whom Jesus has chosen, he knows his rightful place. Already in the Church that is beginning to form, Peter is aware that Jesus continues to be Lord and God. It’s amazing!
Peter knew Jesus and lived with him. He was appointed by him the head of the Church. He’s also responsible for the Apostles. He would have all the reasons to “brag about”, to become proud and to become someone else.
For every missionary, Peter has just realized an important teaching with a testimony worthy of a Pope. He sees Cornelius coming and throwing himself at his feet. He could say, “You’re a good disciple,” or “get up now and let’s have a drink”.
But by his words, Peter presents himself in a different way. He said to Cornelius, “Get up. I myself am also a human being.”
What a beautiful grace of humility! May we ask this grace to Jesus. By his gesture and words, he helps Cornelius to understand that Jesus is Lord. Peter recognizes himself as a simple man and therefore gives full opening to Jesus. He evangelizes.
Peter cannot do anything by himself and he knows it. He’s on a mission, but not for himself. He’s a missionary for Jesus, for the announcement of the Good News.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
