But you, who do you say I am
There is a difference between who friends and acquaintances say we are and who loved ones say we are. Persons like our spouse, children and parents know us in a deeper more personal way. They know us intimately, who we are in different situations and when we are not trying to succeed or impress the world. They know us when we are vulnerable.
One of the members of our prayer group, repeatedly shares that his wife is the only person who knows who he is, and she knows him better than he knows himself. Such love!
It is therefore not surprising that Jesus draws such a distinction in this week’s Gospel Luke 9:18-24. After asking his disciples who do the crowds say he is, he then turns to his disciples and asks ‘But you, who do you say I am?’
I believe Jesus was surprised to hear Peter’s answer ‘The Christ of God.’ In another Gospel we read Jesus’ reply, that he, Peter, could have only known this through a revelation from God. Prompting Jesus to declare him the leader of the disciples.
This moment reveals something profound about both human and divine relationships. Just as only those who live closest to us can speak truthfully about our deeper identity, so too only those who walk closely with Jesus—who share life, trials, and quiet moments with Him—can begin to see who He truly is.
Peter's declaration wasn’t born of mere observation or public opinion; it came from a place of intimacy and spiritual openness. It reminds us that knowing Jesus, like being truly known ourselves, requires more than distance or admiration—it demands relationship, presence, and vulnerability.
Jesus invites us to walk with Him in every season of our lives—joy and suffering. In moments of celebration, He rejoices with us; in times of pain and confusion, He draws nearer still, offering strength, peace, and purpose. This companionship is not superficial—it is a call to deep discipleship, where we learn to recognize His presence not only in answered prayers but also in silence, not only in triumph but also in the cross we carry.
As we journey with Him, our understanding of who He is grows clearer, and we discover more fully who we are in His eyes—beloved, called, and never alone.
Please join with me through reflections, photos and videos on my pilgrimage to a Benedictine Monastery in Poitiers France. Today’s prepatory reflection is titled a Pilgrim’s Prayer.