Günther Anders argues that where St. Ignatius of Loyola, the wounded ex-soldier who founded the Jesuits, thought it necessary to devise what he called “spiritual exercises” for his times, we need new spiritual exercises to train our souls to begin to comprehend what we now can do.

In a place where Caesar’s authority appeared unquestionable, Peter recognizes another kingdom and another source of authority. His confession quietly challenges every power that claims the final word over human life, hope, and belonging. It reorients allegiance away from imperial claims toward the reign of God revealed in Jesus Christ.