But who do you say that I am?

August 27, Sunday of the 20th week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: First reading:Isaiah 22:19–23; Romans 11:33–36; Matthew 16:13–20

Jesus didn't pull any punches with his disciples, did he? Yes, he wanted them to tell him what the crowds were saying about him. But he wasn't just interested in the "word on the street." The most important question that Jesus asked his disciples—the question that made all the difference—was a more personal one: "Who do you say that I am?" (Matthew 16:15, emphasis added).

It's the question that makes all the difference for you, too. Because being able to explain what other people say about Jesus doesn't really change your life. As you think about who Jesus is, you might hear the echoes of your mother or grandfather telling you that Jesus is the Son of God. You might hear friends or coworkers say that he's a healer or a great moral leader. You might hear a teacher or catechist tell you that he is the Messiah. You might hear your parish priest say that he is the Lord of heaven and earth.

But what about you? After all that input from other people and your own life experiences, who do you say Jesus is? Find some time today to take this question into your time of prayer. Ask your heavenly Father for the grace—the same grace he gave to Simon Peter in today's Gospel—to reveal Jesus to you more deeply and to convince you more powerfully that he is your Messiah and Savior.

Then tell Jesus who you say he is. If you felt his presence during a troubled time, praise him for being your best friend and guide. If you experienced the relief and joy of forgiveness, thank him for being your Redeemer and merciful Savior. If you catch a glimpse of his glory at the Father's right hand, worship him for being the Lord of history and the Son of God.

Who we say Jesus is changes everything. So who is he to you?

"Jesus, you are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!"