Throughout the Easter season, the first readings at Mass (on Sundays and weekdays alike) are taken from the Acts of the Apostles. Practically this makes sense since Acts recounts the events following Jesus’ death and Resurrection. But there is also a spiritual significance to reading from this book during the Easter season.
Just like His first disciples, we aren’t meant to keep our alleluias and joy in the Lord’s Resurrection and salvation confined to our churches or to ourselves, but to proclaim them to the world. It took a little encouragement for the Apostles, especially St. Peter, to do this, and so it may take a little courage for us, but we too can say with St. Peter: “He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that He is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. To Him all the prophets bear witness, that everyone who believes in Him will receive forgiveness of sins through His name.” (Acts 10, 42-43)
The Easter season is a grace-filled time to unite ourselves to this age-old mission of the Apostles and share the Good News of Jesus. Let us glorify Christ in every way we can and let the brilliance of His Eternal Light shine forth from our Church, our parish, and our hearts.
