June 29, 2019 Saturday ST PETER AND ST PAUL, APOSTLES-C

Acts of the Apostles 12:1-11

Psalm 37

2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18

Matthew 16:13-19

The chains fell from his wrists.  Acts 12:7

And I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. 2 Tim. 4:17

Lord, your rescued both of these heroes of our faith according to your plan.  It was not yet Peter’s time to come to you as he awaited a probable execution the next day. Your angel performed a miraculous and impossible hostage rescue because Peter had more work to do for you .  He would go on to lead your young Church and continue to do the great work you had given him to do.  Paul was in a prison of a different kind.  He was in a prison of hate and fury against your disciples.  You rescued him in a dramatic way on the road to Damascus to arrest your followers.  He became your greatest witness in the world and continues, through his letters, to proclaim the good news of your resurrection even to today.   As the angel said to your Mother Mary, “nothing is impossible for God.”  You still do impossible rescues now.  How many times have you saved me from horrific disease, tragic accidents, or financial disaster?   I will only know that answer when I come home to you.  Thank you so much for rescuing me from the death of sin.  Thank you for freeing me to be your servant in my family and in the world.  Amen.