2026/08/23 SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

- Lara Engert, Director of Stewardship & Development

In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks his disciples, “But who do you say that I am?” The disciples initially share what they have heard from others—that Jesus is John the Baptist, Elijah, or one of the prophets. But Peter responds with a declaration of faith: “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus then tells Peter that he is the rock upon which he will build his Church.

This question—“Who do you say that I am?”—always invites me to personal reflection and consideration. Who is Jesus to me? How am I welcoming Christ into my life? How do his teachings shape the way I live, treat others, and serve my community? Taking time to reflect on these questions deepens my relationship with Christ and renews my faith.

I am also struck by Peter’s willingness to profess his faith. In a world filled with many voices and perspectives about who Jesus was and what it means to follow him, it can sometimes be difficult to discern how we are called to live as Christians. This Gospel reminds me to return to Christ—to prayer, Scripture, and the teachings of our faith—and to allow that relationship to guide my words and actions.