Tuesday within Easter Octave – 11th April 2023 – Acts 2,36-41; Jn 20,11-18
Response of Conversion
Today’s first reading presents the immediate results of Peter’s proclamation of the Good news, that three thousand were baptized. He hits the nail hard saying, that the Jews crucified their own Saviour. The first expression of his hearers is that they were ‘cut to the heart’. This expression reflects both their belief in what they have just heard about Jesus as ‘Lord and Messiah’ and regret over their former rejection. It means that they understand and accept that they crucified David’s heir. They were deeply moved and shaken, and sincerely persuaded to ask what they should do in response. Peter invites them to a new way of life with an act of conversion and full reconciliation with God. If they come to be baptized then their former sins would be forgiven and would receive the gift of the Spirit. Thus, they are invited to re-establish, to deepen their relationship and bond with God.
