Greetings on this the Saturday of the Third Week of Easter
Readings: Acts 9:31-42; Ps 116:12-13, 14-15, 16-17; Jn 6:60-69
Notes
In our first reading today, Peter personifies the power of the person of Jesus by the actions he takes. Peter did not act from his own power but by the gifts of the power of the Son of God and by the holy Spirit. This is the work of peace. This is the work of the Sabbath.
- There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been confined to bed for eight years, for he was paralyzed. Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed.” He got up at once. See a correlation to https://bible.usccb.org/bible/luke/13
- Now during those days she fell sick and died, so after washing her, they laid [her] out in a room upstairs. Peter sent them all out and knelt down and prayed [over Dorcas]. Then he turned to her body and said, “Tabitha, rise up.” She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up. He gave her his hand and raised her up, and when he had called the holy ones and the widows, he presented her alive. See: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/mark/5?40=#49005040
The gospel message of Jesus Christ continues to this day.
Summary
The Church throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria was at peace.
Reflection
We can see from the beginning Jesus was anointing, appointing and distributing the graces flowing through him to flow through the disciples and his friends.
he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full (Matt 14:19b-20).
Can we claim today that the Church throughout all [the world] [is] at peace?
Maybe not, actually.
We need to return to the basics:
- Give what Jesus gave.
- Share what Jesus offers.
- Heal men and women, adult and child.
- Distribute the bread (natural and supernatural).
- Do the work of peace and the work of Sabbath.
The rest is drama.
Personal Reflection
I fall into the same trap as anyone else. The Church [fill in the blank] – an assortment of complaints.
Rather, we should strive for peace. Not as the world gives peace.
The peace of Sabbath work.
Like Jesus.
Like Peter.
First Reading
The Church throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria was at peace. She was being built up and walked in the fear of the Lord, and with the consolation of the Holy Spirit she grew in numbers.
Responsorial
How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me?
Gospel Acclamation
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.
Gospel
Simon Peter answered [Jesus], “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry