Acts 5:12-16; Ps 117(118); Rev 1:9-19; John 20:19-31
All the first readings of Eastertide are from the Acts of the Apostles describing the early years of the Church. The second readings are from the Book of Revelation, John’s vision of the new life in heaven promised to all believers. The readings from John’s Gospel describe Jesus’ resurrection appearances and claims of his unity with the Father. Today the risen Jesus identifies himself as the one crucified, before this Gospel’s first ending.
In Acts Peter and John were arrested, then released. Then the growing Christian community lived in peace. Peter only once acted as judge of Israel, killing Ananias and Sapphira for lying to the Holy Spirit. In today’s reading the other disciples stand apart from the Apostles, apparently in awe after this display of Peter’s power.
More verses from the psalm used for the Easter Masses, rejoicing at the coming of the king.
John is exiled to the island of Patmos, south-west of Ephesus, for spreading the gospel. In this first chapter of Revelation a figure appears to John in his vision, identifying himself both as the risen “Son of Man”, which Jesus called himself while on earth, and as “the First and the Last” – ie God. John is commanded to write down what is now to be revealed to him.
Psalm Response: Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, for his love has no end.