When Peter, speaking for the twelve apostles, affirms his belief in Jesus, it is in terms of staying with Him, following Him, committing himself to Him completely. So often the word “belief†can mean just accepting statements or doctrines as true, a mere matter of opinion. Yet what today’s Gospel tells us about belief is that it is about traveling along with Christ, following Him no matter where, being committed to listening to His words and to acting upon them.
As in a marriage both partners are called to sustain each other and depend upon each other trustfully, disciples of Christ, all of us, are called into that sort of relationship with Him. It will never be straightforward. The first fruits flush of romantic love, or the enthusiasm of the new convert will be tried, will pass and, please God, will be replaced with a deeper, more mature love. That love has no end – it is eternal. You, Lord, have the message of eternal life.
“There is no condemnation now for those who are in Christ Jesus. The law of the spirit, the spirit of life in Christ Jesus, has freed you from the law of sin and death.†— Romans 8:1-2