When we give our word, in a certain sense we give ourselves. We put ‘on the line’ what is most intimate to ourselves. In spite of his personal failings, a true disciple and follower of Christ will be honest and loyal, a man of his word. In the Church, we Christians are called ‘the faithful’. This term underlines the state acquired by the members of the People of God through Baptism (cf A. del Portillo, Faithful and Laity in the Church, pp15 ff). But a person who inspires confidence, whom we can trust, can also be called faithful. People like this live up to the confidence placed in them, to the demands of love, friendship or duty . This kind of person keeps his word. In Holy Scripture the term ‘faithful’ is applied to God himself because no one is more worthy of trust than He. God is always faithful to his promises; he never fails to keep his word. In Saint Paul’s words: God is faithful and he will not let you be tempted beyond your strength (1 Cor 10:13).
It's not just a text book answer. To answer Who am I To You, you need to be on a journey with him, a journey of life, grace and sin. Just like Peter. Not so much about studying idea, but to live as a disciple. By walking with him, we get to know him and love him. Everyday, with our strength and weaknesses. With our big victories and struggles. Because in those everyday meeting, we get what Paul calls, the mind of Christ, the hermeneutics by which to judge everything.
In our relationships with others, we cannot just be present. We need to be involved. Being present is like being a Scarecrow in the field, useless in preventing the birds from gnawing at the fruits. We need to be involved, actively, protecting and assuring those around us that we are not only just present, but active to help, to walk, to give.
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