Petrus locutus est

Today’s first reading (Acts 15:7-21) begins with “much debate” at the Council of Jerusalem.

Then, after Peter speaks,

The whole assembly fell silent,
and they listened...

tacuit autem omnis multitude
et audiebant

Very often, especially in the blogosphere, people are interested above all in their own opinions as well as the thrust and parry of debate.

In today’s first reading, the voice of Peter reminds us that we should be much more interested in listening.

This is so because, as our Lord reminds us in today’s Gospel (John 15:9-11), the ultimate source of truth is not within our individual skulls, the greatest love of all is not self-focused, and true joy comes not from chasing feelings but from following the commandments of God.

When Peter speaks,
we should listen.