There is a chair in my living room that everyone in the house seems to gravitate toward. Even though there is an identical chair on the opposite side of the room, this one chair tends to be the one that everyone looks for the opportunity to occupy. It seems that most homes have a chair or spot that becomes a favorite or coveted place to be. Today is the Feast of the Chair of St. Peter, the Apostle, the one appointed by Christ to be the head of the Church.

Perhaps, something to consider on this day, is not the many ways that things become, whether by intention or not, “chosen,” or not, but rather assuming one’s rightful position. In the realm of faith, being in the “preferred” place, has nothing to do with getting there first, or being the best, but simply with moving toward a place of authenticity, and the experience of a guiding inner peace.

St. Peter, as is well known, tripped, stumbled, and even fell. However, he continued to believe and hope in the Best. He also continued to follow the Way to the best of his ability, striving for what might be best in God’s eyes.

From the Chair to the Table, and the readings for the seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time…

In the Book of Leviticus it is written, “Be holy, for I, the Lord your God, am holy” (19:2).

In the Book of Psalms, God’s kindness and mercy… God’s way, is highlighted. “The Lord pardons all your iniquities, heals all your ills. The Lord redeems your life from destruction, crowns you with kindness and compassion” (103:3-4).

In the first letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul writes, “Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” (3:16).

Finally, in the Gospel according to Matthew, Jesus introduces a new way of looking at justice. He makes it clear that it is not to be an eye for an eye, but rather a consistent response of love.  Jesus ends by instructing the disciples, “So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect” (5:38-48).

Throughout society, in so many different areas of life, a drive toward perfection is rampant, and the competition that arises from it can be ruthless. However, the only perfection that one can ever really experience is through moments of truly letting go or surrendering and coming into union with God and God’s ways. Taking time and effort to make, from the very small to the big, choice upon choice in line with the beat placed in one’s heart and soul from the moment of inception, is the only way to achieving that which is true and meaningful perfection. Everything else is just hollow.