The Ember Days, particularly those of Lent, remind us of the penitential and sacrificial nature of the priesthood, a theme deeply embedded in today’s scriptural readings. In 1 Peter 5:1-4, 10-11, St. Peter exhorts the shepherds of the Church to tend their flocks with humility, not out of compulsion or greed, but with a willing heart, following the example of the Chief Shepherd, Christ Himself. The Gospel reading, Matthew 16:13-19, further reinforces this theme by presenting the divine foundation of the Church upon Peter, the Rock, who is given the keys of the Kingdom. Together, these passages invite us to meditate on the nature of spiritual authority, the trials of leadership, and the promise of eternal glory.
The Shepherd’s Duty: A Call to Humility and Vigilance
St. Peter, writing as an elder to fellow elders, presents a vision of leadership that is not about domination but humble service:
“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking care of it, not by constraint, but willingly, according to God: not for filthy lucre’s sake, but voluntarily: Neither as lording it over the clergy, but being made a pattern of the flock from the heart. And when the Prince of pastors shall appear, you shall receive a never-fading crown of glory.” (1 Pet 5:2-4)
Here, the Apostle reminds us that true shepherds do not seek worldly gain or status but reflect the self-giving love of Christ, the Good Shepherd. St. John Chrysostom, commenting on this passage, warns against the dangers of ambition in clerical life:
“Nothing is more dangerous than the love of precedence, for it was this that cast even the angels from heaven.” (Homilies on the Gospel of St. Matthew, 58.3)
Rather than exalting themselves, pastors are called to suffer with and for their flock, trusting in the Lord’s ultimate reward. This is in keeping with the penitential spirit of Lent, in which both clergy and laity must embrace the discipline of self-denial for the sake of holiness.
The Cross Before the Crown: Suffering as Preparation for Glory
In the second part of the Epistle, St. Peter offers a profound message of hope to those enduring trials:
“But the God of all grace, who hath called us into his eternal glory in Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little, will himself perfect you, and confirm, and establish you. To him be glory and empire for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Pet 5:10-11)
This echoes the theme of the Ember Days, which call the Church to fasting, prayer, and purification as preparation for divine grace. St. Augustine, reflecting on this passage, writes:
“The whole life of a good Christian is a holy longing. What you desire, you do not yet see; but by longing, you are made capable, so that when He comes, you may be satisfied.” (Tractates on the Gospel of John, 4.6)
Just as the apostles had to endure suffering before receiving the fullness of their mission, so too must every Christian pass through the trials of life to be strengthened in faith.
Peter’s Confession: The Foundation of the Church’s Authority
In the Gospel, we hear Christ’s question to His disciples:
“But whom do you say that I am?” (Matt 16:15)
It is Peter, inspired by divine grace, who responds:
“Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matt 16:16)
This confession of faith becomes the rock upon which the Church is built. Christ’s words, “Thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church,” (Matt 16:18) establish the divine authority of the papacy. As St. Cyprian of Carthage explains:
“The primacy is given to Peter, so that the Church and the episcopate may be shown to be one. Whoever does not hold fast to this unity of Peter, does he think he holds the faith?” (On the Unity of the Church, 4)
On this Ember Wednesday, as the Church ordains new shepherds to continue the apostolic mission, this Gospel reminds us that their authority is not their own but Christ’s, and it is exercised in humility and fidelity to the truth.
Conclusion: The Path of Lent and the Promise of Glory
The readings of this day illuminate the journey of Lent itself: humility before God, perseverance in suffering, and the promise of ultimate glory. Just as Peter was purified through trial and ultimately crowned with martyrdom, so too are we called to embrace the sacrifices of Lent in hope of the eternal crown. Let us pray for our shepherds, that they may lead with the heart of Christ, and for ourselves, that we may remain steadfast in the faith built upon the Rock of Peter.
“To Him be glory and empire forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Pet 5:11)