Do you feel like you’re on defense when it comes to faith and justice? Austin Kleman, SJ, reflects on the promise of Jesus to Peter, assuring us that His Kingdom will always prevail. Based on the readings for Sunday, August 27, 2023.
Are we on offense or defense?
Hi, my name is Austin Kleman, and this is my one-minute reflection.
After installing Peter as the rock for the Church, Jesus tells us that “the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against” the Church.
For years I imagined the Church playing defense while the netherworld played offense, trying to break down the Church. But, on closer reading, I realized the “gates” of the netherworld are what will not prevail. Meaning the Church is on the offense trying to break down the gates of the netherworld.
But what does that mean?
It means no evil can resist Christ and the Church. Whenever you and I try to share the Gospel, do a good deed for a friend, or give to a stranger, the netherworld will not prevail. Jesus, in his death and resurrection, has won, and we no longer need to fear the netherworld or the evil one.
