In today’s reading, St Peter talks about the salvation which the prophets of ancient times longed for and searched for with all their hearts. This salvation came to pass in the person and sufferings of Christ. This was a mystery so marvellous that the angels themselves longed to catch a glimpse of these things.

Nevertheless, the fulfilment of this prophecy came at a cost. Previously, St Peter had asked Jesus about his fate, as well as that of the other Apostles. They were the first ones to leave everything to follow Jesus. In His mercy, Jesus acknowledged the Apostles’ sacrifices as well as the sacrifices of those who are to come. He reassured them that though they would all experience persecution, all those who had suffered in His name would be repaid a hundred times over in this life and in the world to come.

The readings today invite us to accept the challenging reality of following Christ and leave behind all that is not of Him. They call upon us to make a habit of obedience and holiness. These twin habits are made possible through the grace given to all of us in the revelation of Jesus Christ.