Saturday within Easter Octave : 15th April 2023

The Christians in early times had to counter fake news that the body of Jesus was stolen by His disciples and that He had not been resurrected as they claimed. The Jewish leaders were amazed at what Peter was able to do. First, being an uneducated fisherman, Peter spoke suddenly with remarkable wisdom and courage.

Second, a lame man was miraculously healed by Peter’s words. What can we learn from these two amazing fact? Peter has been blessed with something beyond natural ability. We recognise the power of the Risen Lord at work here—Jesus is alive!

The Jewish elders, however, refused to see this truth. So Peter challenged them with a question: “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to Him?” (Acts 4:19).

Even while persecuted, Peter did not bow to human voices; rather, Peter focused on God’s voice.

In the Gospel, the disciples find it difficult to believe that Jesus has truly risen. Amid this doubt, how-ever, Jesus invites them to focus on His voice. Jesus had a profound desire for them. He sends them and us on a mission: “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to all creation”. (Mark 16:15).

Am I ever tempted to focus on the voice of other people rather than Jesus?

Lord, help me to focus on You. Jesus, what is Your desire for me?