Peter was privileged to know Jesus in ways not granted to the other disciples (see Mt 16:17; Mt 14:29; Mt 17:1; Mk 5:37; Mt 26:37). If anyone was in a position to know Jesus intimately, Peter was. He knew Jesus the Messiah, Teacher, Deliverer, Raiser of the dead, and Master of the crowds. Yet, on Good Friday, Peter saw a Man before him standing bound, captive, mocked, and silent before His accusers. When asked about his association with this Prisoner, Peter answered: "I do not even know the Man" (Mt 26:74). Certainly, Peter spoke words of cowardice and denial. Yet, there is a profound truth to Peter's statement: he did not know Jesus, the Suffering Servant, Who was standing before him.

Paul was privileged to see Jesus and converse with Him (see Acts 9:4-5; 18:9-10; 9:16; 2 Cor 12:1-4). Paul knew Jesus in a way that few human beings will ever experience. However, Paul said: "I wish to know Christ" (Phil 3:10). Paul realized that his human lifespan was insufficient to completely know the God-Man.

Perhaps you feel that you know Jesus personally and intimately. Even so, the Passion Sunday readings challenge you to take a new look at the Unknown One. Humbly bow before Him during the upcoming Holy Week. Ask Him: "Do I really know You?" He will look at you (Lk 22:61), and your life with Him will never be the same.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 1, 2016

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