In the first reading, we read how Moses, who was chosen by God to lead the Israelites to the Promised Land, was facing a crisis. The people were blaming him for placing their lives in danger. Those whom he was trying to help were now questioning his leadership. Worse still, he was told by God that he will not be leading the people into the Promised Land.

In the Gospel, we see Peter, the man chosen by Jesus to be the leader of the early Christian community, first being praised, and then being sharply reprimanded by Jesus. To be called 'Satan' and 'an obstacle' by Jesus is certainly not very pleasant. Although Peter had used poor judgement in wanting to prevent Jesus from going to Jerusalem, his intentions were well meant.

In the face of these circumstances, Moses and Peter could have reacted negatively to what they experienced. They could have taken offence, become bitter and resentful. They could have said 'enough is enough' and walked away from their responsibilities. But they did not. We know from the scriptures that Moses remained faithful to his calling to the very end. We know from Tradition that Peter eventually gave his life for Christ.

Have you become discouraged from doing God's work because people have questioned your capabilities or motives? Have you been misunderstood for doing what you sincerely thought was right?