"But they were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost."
Luke 24:37
The two readings we have today reflect such an amazing contrast between the disciples just after the crucifixion and then, after Pentecost. Here they are, in the Upper Room, just after Jesus' death on the cross. They are shivering and scared, behind locked doors, afraid that the same people who crucified Jesus will come after them. In today's first reading from Acts, here is Peter proclaiming at the temple, "The author of life you put to death, but God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses." (Acts 3:15) Peter has evolved from a quivering denier of Jesus in the courtyard to a seemingly fearless proclaimer of Jesus at the temple! The fact that St. Luke is the author of both readings, makes it even more interesting. Can the Holy Spirit do that for us, too? Can the Holy Spirit give us the fearless verve it takes to proclaim Jesus in our own environments? Certainly! Holy Spirit, please give me what I need today to give the world what Jesus gives...the Father's love and mercy! Love, heidi
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