Perhaps the most first thing that is noticeable from this passage is Jesus’ question about who he is, but the story continues with something more to consider. Jesus commends Simon for his faith and promises Simon “the keys to the Kingdom of heaven.” What greater sign of love and trust could Jesus have shown? However, just five verses later, Jesus calls Simon Peter “Satan” and rebukes him for being an “obstacle” to God’s plan. How can Jesus say such a thing to the man with whom he has entrusted his church?

Simon’s actions can be likened to parents who want to prevent their child from hurting or to the spouse who would do anything for their partner’s wellbeing. Reacting as Simon Peter did to the thought of Jesus’ suffering is something we can all relate to and have all probably done. Conversely, there are times where we may find ourselves in the role of Jesus: needing to assure those around us that we must face the obstacles and difficulties that lie ahead.
As we think about our lives now, are we currently more in the role of Jesus or Simon? If we are the worrying Simon, we pray for acceptance of God’s plan, even when we cannot fully understand it and when a loved one’s suffering brings us pain, too. If we are more like Jesus, we can at least take comfort that God will never give us a cross we cannot bear. We pray for the wisdom to learn from our struggles and to trust that God can transform them into something fruitful.
Regardless of where we find ourselves right now, we pray often for guidance. When I was a student, I found that talking to Mary at the Grotto was my guiding light during final exams, bouts of homesickness, and even the unexpected death of an uncle. Jesus overcame death for us; we can overcome anything if we trust in him.