Dealing with the Peter, Thomas and Judas in each of us
Dealing with the Peter, Thomas and Judas in each of us
They make an interesting trio, Peter, Thomas, and Judas. Three of the original disciples who share similarities in certain aspects and differ in other respects.
Their existences are vastly distinct from ours, nearly 2,000 years later. Yet their behaviors and decisions are not so unlike ours today. This is why it’s beneficial to recognize and keep in mind that a part of each of them resides within each of us. And Lent, without a doubt, is an excellent opportunity to reflect on this.
Peter, the stone that fractured
At certain moments, similar to St. Peter, we may be the ones declaring without any hesitation in our hearts: “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Mt 16:16). Maybe not in exactly this (or that) phrasing, but through countless, countless deeds.
The moments we guide others to Jesus through the way we conduct our lives. The occasions when the Father, Son, or Holy Spirit presents us with a new calling, a transformation in our lives, an unexpected divergence in our journey, or a demanding invitation as time progresses. And we, in various ways, “cast aside our nets” and pursue.
However, similar to us, Peter had his flaws. Peter required some instruction, some adjustments, and some grappling with significant mistakes. We are aware that he went through that. Indeed, he was the “rock” selected to guide the early Church, but he was also ….
The arrogant (if you’ll allow the pun) disciple who was entirely convinced he would never — never! — disown Jesus. This was during the Last Supper. Then, just a few hours afterward, he did exactly that, three times. We all know the specifics. Most of us might learn them during childhood or adolescence. Likewise, the Resurrected Christ’s three inquiries to Peter in person: “Do you love me?” (Jn 21 15-17).
What connection do those two occurrences have to us? At various points in time, in one way or another, they represent us. More than three instances. To phrase it in a biblical manner, “seventy times seven times” they symbolize us.
No, we don’t inform a gathering packed into a courtyard (or a mall food court) that we are unfamiliar with this Jesus individual. It’s not that way. What we do is sin. Occasionally in secret, sometimes more openly. Each instance, through our behavior, we reject a connection with Christ.
And when our actions resonate within us, similar to Peter, we also (in some way or another), “step outside and weep with deep sorrow” (Mt 26:75).
However, Peter’s narrative doesn’t conclude at that point, and neither does ours. Jesus never forsakes us, nor does He cease to love us.
The pattern then, the pattern currently, is as follows: Sin, repentance, forgiveness, mercy, grace. A celestial “mulligan,” to reference a golfing phrase that signifies a chance to redo. A fresh beginning. God understands that the Peter within us occasionally requires that. Often too.
And God believes in us that we will make the initial small stride toward him. He grants us the chance, through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, to admit our wrongdoings and to seek forgiveness. It’s a gesture so straightforward with outcomes so significant. Established, crafted, and presented for the Peter within each of us.
Again and again.
Thomas got a bum rap
It’s unfortunate St. Thomas has been tagged as “doubting.” Even those who don’t follow Christianity recognize the phrase, although they may not be aware of its origins. Truly, he could have been referred to as “brave Thomas” or “faithful Thomas,” but that’s just how it goes, both in the past and present.
You are familiar with the specifics surrounding the “doubting” moniker. He was absent when the risen Jesus showed himself to the other apostles, and when they subsequently relayed the news to him, he remarked (in essence), “I’ll accept it when I witness it.” A typical response to an extraordinary occurrence.
However, there’s an alternative Thomas quote that presents him in a significantly different perspective. Jesus informs them of his intention to go to Jerusalem, and they comprehend that he is destined to die there. All the disciples remain quiet, apart from Thomas, who exclaims, “Let us also go to die with him” (Jn 11:16).
That was at a time when, seemingly, everyone else harbored their uncertainties.
What is the nature of those emotions within us? At times, we simply find ourselves uncertain. We desire additional insights. We wish to witness it firsthand. This is not inherently negative. It seems reasonable to suggest that Jesus considered us when he spoke to Thomas, stating, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe” (Jn 20:29).
We observe — we obtain — Christ in the forms of bread and wine, but not in the way Thomas perceived him. Thus, it is our faith that informs us of this truth. Moreover, it is our bravery that compels us to utilize that Eucharistic grace to fulfill what he is requesting of us.
Judas, coin by coin
And we are all familiar with the particulars of Judas’ narrative. One of the Twelve, responsible for the finances, consents to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. The kiss that serves as identification. The regret, the ending of his own life.
And it is here, within that enumeration of his actions, that we find our place. Too frequently.
It appears reasonable to conclude he began modestly. Gradually. More profoundly. Gradually. Minor transgression by minor transgression. Until …
The evangelist (and subsequently, artists) didn’t miss the point that he managed the funds. And that he took from the collection.
If he resembles the majority of us — and why wouldn’t he? — it began with a single coin on one occasion. Minor damage, minor infraction. Then came another. Followed by two more coins taken. It was so effortless. No one aware of it. What was the real harm, anyway?
The “slippery slope” has become a cliché because, much like many clichés, it originates from reality. Just as the majority of us are unlikely to abruptly transform into paragons of virtue, the same applies to descending into vice.
Good and bad are constructed little choice by little choice. Or, if you like, small decision, small step.
The handbag, the bounty, that God has placed in our care is our existence. And similarly to Judas with the money bag, He allows us to choose how we’ll utilize those coins, how we’ll invest them. One by one.
Peter, Thomas, and Judas. Three individuals, three existences, countless choices.
Just like us.
Bill Dodds writes from Washington.
| ONE LAST CHANCE FOR JUDAS |
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An excerpt from the writings of Cardinal Antonio Bacci (1885-1971). The treacherous Apostle comes forward. He embraces our divine Redeemer, hails Him as his Master and greets Him with a sacrilegious kiss upon the cheek. Jesus neither repulses nor rebukes him but, with a gesture of infinite mercy, He addresses him as a friend. “Friend,” He says, “for what purpose hast thou come?” (Mt 26:50). “Dost thou betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” (Lk 22:48). If only Judas could have heeded this last appeal and begged for forgiveness at Jesus’ feet with tears of repentance! Jesus would certainly have taken him to His heart and returned his kiss with a kiss of pardon and divine friendship. Perhaps, we have also stood at times on the brink of sin and have been aware of a higher appeal to go back! But, have we heeded it? If ever we are in danger again, let us listen to this quiet voice which speaks to our conscience. Let us fall on our knees before Jesus and earnestly implore Him: “Be not silent, Lord, be not far from me!” (Ps 34 [35]:22). Let us ask Him to have pity on our weakness and to come to our assistance. |
