Read Acts 3:11-26, Ps. 8:2,5-9, Luke 24:35-48
“Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we had made him walk? The God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus.” (Acts 3:12-13)
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus appeared in the company of his disciples. They thought He was a ghost. Jesus asked them if they had anything to eat and they gave him a piece of broiled fish which he ate in their presence. He then went on to explain the Scriptures to them.
Jesus said: “Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.” (Luke 24:46-48).
In today’s first reading, we realize that this was exactly the mission of Peter and John. As soon as the crippled man was cured, Peter gave a sermon where he noted: “And now, friends, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. In this way, God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, that his Messiah would suffer. Repent, therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out” (Acts 3:18-19).
Peter takes glory away from himself and directs the attention of the crowd to Jesus. He knew the miracle had captured their attention. Peter did not ask them to sow seeds in anticipation of their own miracle, rather He said: “Repent, therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out.” This is the message we must continue to preach today: Repent, seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness and every other thing shall be added unto you.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, grant us the grace of true repentance. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. (Easter Thursday. Bible Study: Acts 3:11-26, Ps. 8:2,5-9, Luke 24:35-48)
© Rev. Fr. Evaristus Abu