Homily: Wednesday of Second Week of Easter

Wednesday of Second Week of Easter (Acts 5:17-26) “The Message Won’t Die”

The Sadducees were part of the ruling class in Jerusalem. The high priest was the most powerful figure in the city. The high priest not only managed the temple, but he was the one who negotiated with the Roman authorities.

The high priest’s family and friends would sell the animals to be sacrificed at the temple. If someone brought an animal from outside the temple precincts the priests could claim that the animal was defective in some way. If that were the case, then they would send the pilgrim to the temple merchants who sold approved animals.

The high priest and the other clergy gathered the profits from this process. Consequently, they were very wealthy. The clergy at the temple did not want these things to change. Jesus threatened this corrupt system. When he was put to death the high priest thought that the danger to his privileged statues was over.

How disconcerting it must have been to have the apostles preaching the message of Jesus in the temple area. Jesus’ message was still being proclaimed. The high priest arrested the apostles and threw them into prison, but even that did not put an end to the matter.

What does all this say to those of us who read about the activities of the early church. It tells us that that after Jesus died and rose his work continued. The preaching went on. The physical and mental healing still took place. And the call for justice was still going on.

When a truth is proclaimed, that truth can’t be eradicated. We see that in history. When a virtuous leader is martyred very often their disciples continue their work. Often, they grow more committed. The work of justice will some day come to fruition. We look forward to that day.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Who are some of the martyrs for justice in history? What happened after they died?

2.   The ministry of Jesus is still happening. What evidence do I see?

 Dear Parishioners,

             Episodes of “The Chosen” were shown on Sunday during Lent. This coming Sunday we will show two more episodes from season two. This has is a popular television series about the life of Christ. If you have not participated so far this is another opportunity.

            The showing will take place in the Damien Center at 2 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

            May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,

            Fr. Mark