Breaking the Word

Easter Saturday – 15^th April 2023 – Acts 4, 13-21; Mk 16,9-15

Obedient to God’s Command

Today’s first reading is the second half of the ‘trial’ of Peter and John before the members of the Sanhedrin. The Sanhedrin are astonished at the self-confidence of the two apostles, considering that they are uneducated fishermen. They had no training in rabbinic schools, nor did they have any standing in recognized religious circles. Yet, the apostles clearly expressed that their source of strength and confidence is in Jesus. The leaders do not know what to do with them. If they punish the apostles, the people will be upset, because many have come to believe in the ‘Name of Jesus’ and through the actions and words of the apostles. If they overlook what the apostles are doing, then the people will ask why the religious leaders do not believe. However, the leaders realized that there was power in the ‘Name of Jesus’. Therefore, they decided to give a stern warning to avoid mentioning ‘that name’.  Peter and John respond by saying they cannot disobey Gods’ command. The command of Jesus, as in the Gospel, is to spread and do great things in ‘His Name.’

Friday within Easter Octave – 14^th April 2023 – Acts 4,1-12; Jn 21,1-14

Fulfillment of the Psalm

In the first reading, after the proclamation and healing, the next stage in the mission of the disciples takes place, namely, persecution and harassment as promised by Jesus. John and Peter are arrested and are questioned by the religious leaders and Sadducees concerning the healing that was done to the crippled man. Sadducees were upset with the proclamation of Jesus’ resurrection. What strikes in this scene is the boldness of Peter. He is once again filled with the Holy Spirit which gives him both courage and eloquence to speak out boldly. He proclaims that his credential is the ‘name of Jesus’ which empowers him and brings salvation and healing to the people. Peter goes on to quote part of Psalm 118 and tells them that ‘Jesus is the stone rejected by you the builders, but which has proved to be the keystone.’ As in Matthew’s gospel who quotes Old Testament prophecies as fulfillment, here too, Peter quotes the fulfillment of the Psalm as needed in early Christian preaching. In this passage, we find that mocking and attacking our faith in Christ and his Gospel is certain for every believer. However, we will be provided with what we need when faced with hostility and even persecution.