Scripture Reflection - August 23, 2026

Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading: Isaiah 22:19-23

Second Reading: Romans 11:33-36

Gospel: Matthew 16:13-20

In today's Gospel, Jesus asks the disciples who people say he is. They name prophets and leaders. Then, Jesus asks the disciples who they say he is. Simon Peter, who more often than not misses the mark, answers correctly with, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Simon Peter’s answer demonstrates that although he is often mistaken in how he lives as a disciple, he understands the key element of faith. This informs his role as a follower of Jesus and leader in the early Church.

Who do you say that Jesus is?

● Healer

● Redeemer

● Teacher

● Rebel

● Compassionate

● Advocate

● Preacher

● Son of God

● Shepherd

● Carpenter

● Leader

● Prophet

● Friend

● And the list goes on…

How you respond to this question from Jesus likely informs how you follow Jesus. What characteristics of Jesus are alive in you, as you live out your discipleship today? What characteristics of Jesus do you see in others? None of us fully understands who Jesus is, but we can lean into the understanding we have been given and the wisdom we gain from others. Like Peter, we can continue to be the rocks upon which the Church is built today.

Sr. Jenn Schaaf, OP