19 April 2017
Wednesday in the Octave of Easter
The first reading shows us just how drastically the Resurrection can change our lives. Peter sees a crippled beggar, and has compassion on him. Perhaps if Peter had had any money on him, he would have given that to him. But what he is able to give instead is far better. Peter proclaims that “what I do have I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk!” Peter gives the man not just money that would have lasted for a little while, but healing that would last for his whole life. Jesus did this throughout His life on earth, and gave it to Peter and the others.
What Peter does should set a new standard for discipleship. When we think of being disciples, and of acting like Jesus, we think of loving others as Jesus asked. We think of care, compassion, the Golden Rule—and rightly so. But acting like Jesus can also mean so much more than this. It is casting out demons, giving people healing, and helping others experience God’s saving love. It is up to God whether we are called to perform miracles as Peter did. But we can always help others see the power of God’s love for them, and help them to be healed by that love in some way. Our call to act like Jesus goes far beyond doing our moral duty—and Jesus will give us everything we need to live out that call.