Sunday 23 August 2026
21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 22:19-23. Lord, your love is eternal; do not forsake the work of your hands – Ps 137(138):1-3, 6, 8. Romans 11:33-36. Matthew 16:13-20.
Why are we called?
Today’s readings beautifully highlight the role given by Jesus to Peter and the underlying Davidic role on which it builds. Shebna was the preeminent minister of the king within the kingdom of Judah, bearing the king’s authority and acting in his name. Jesus, drawing on the imagery of opening and shutting, establishes Peter in a position which clearly refers back to this basis. Although coincidental, it is tempting to think that our reading of Paul, from Romans, is a commentary on the wisdom of this. Why Jesus? Why Peter, perennially hot-headed and over-eager? Peter, who will betray and abandon you? Peter, who will still wilt even once leading your church in the face of controversy between Jewish and Gentile Christians? ‘Who could ever know the mind of the Lord?’ For me it is comforting to know that God, infinite in wisdom, can work through obviously imperfect leaders.
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