“You are ‘Rock’ (‘Peter’), and upon this rock I will build my Church.” Can you imagine if this was said to you by the Son of God incarnate? What a weight of responsibility! Yet our God is not a God who expects more than we can give. And along the way there is so much mercy, learning, and growth. The very next story in the Gospel after this declaration of Jesus is Peter trying to convince Jesus not to die on the Cross. Jesus says “Get behind me Satan! You are a hindrance to me; for you are not on the side of God, but of men.” From this we can see that Peter was not perfect after he was given this calling by God, but followed Jesus even with stumbling steps. I don’t know about you, but I can relate to that. Secondly, Jesus’ “tough love” reorients Peter to a right understanding of Jesus’ mission and Peter’s own. We can’t see things as men see it, but trust that God is directing us to the good. Eventually, it is said that Peter himself died on a cross, but did not think himself worthy to die in the same way as Christ, so was crucified upside-down - seeing things not as the way of men (“right-side up”), but from a perspective of humility, from the dust. What humility, not only to die on a cross, but in an even humbler way!
 
Prayer
“Lord Jesus, like Peter, I have fallen short. But I also have great confidence in your mercy, that like Peter, I may more and more serve you beautifully, humbly, and faithfully as you call me to. Thank you for giving us the visible sign of our Pope to keep us united in Christ through this earthly steward of your household. Thank You for bringing our One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church through two thousand years of history so that it was able to give birth spiritually to me, nourish me in the Word and Sacraments, and grant me the leaders and community without which I would not have been led so closely to You. Bless all leaders of our Church today and bless us with a trust in your mercy, unity, and love. Amen.”

Action
Consider encouraging a leader in your Church today, or someone who has mentored you in your faith, by writing a letter, sending a text, or giving a phone call to them, praying for them and letting them know how thankful you are for them passing on the faith to you.


(source - CNN.com)