Reflection by Rev. Leonard N. Peterson

Occasionally, it is good for us to take the time to analyze why we do what we do. Inevitably we conclude that we humans often have a way of complicating things that are actually simple. At Christmas time I often think of loving parents compelled to set up some toy or game in the wee hours of Christmas morning with a maze of instructions and diagrams not easily followed even when they are wide awake. Or I remember a time when I had to assemble a piece of IKEA furniture using a set of their tedious instructions.

Religious beliefs and practices often suffer from the same circumstances. Granted, we have a digest of the faith in the Nicene Creed we recite every Sunday at Mass. This is helpful. But then we look at the Catechism given to us by the Church and see a book with hundreds of teachings filling its pages.

It is true that life itself can sometimes be complicated, especially in our computer-driven world. But the elements of true religion, especially our own, come down to simple basics easily found in the Scriptures we hear each Sunday or more. Today we have one of them clearly stated in the Readings chosen. In the Acts reading, we find Philip preaching successfully to the Samaritans, which leads to many baptisms. Then Peter and John are invited to bless and confirm this new idea of welcoming Gentiles.

St. Peter in his Letter urges us to know what we are talking about when we present the Faith to others, and to do so calmly when people raise questions.

Finally, the Gospel reminds us that the Holy Spirit dwells in the Church as our guide to the truth. Most importantly, our commitment to Christ is proven by works and not merely by words. Words are often cheap enough. Works are always precious, even if they are sometimes simple. The mission you and I inherit through Baptism requires that our words and our works match. Simple enough. It is difficult sometimes to live out.

I like the following quote about faith. “Every tomorrow has two handles: we can take hold of it by the handle of anxiety or by the handle of faith.”

God love you and give you Easter peace.

Rev. Peterson’s Reading & Gospel Summary

Reading I: Acts 8: 5-8, 14-17

Philip, one of the seven selected deacons, leads a successful mission in Samaria. This displays the power of the gospel. Peter and John, as bishops, are called upon to endorse this new development of bringing Gentiles into the community.

Reading II: 1 Peter 3: 15-18

We should always be prepared to make a clear presentation of the faith with calm and self-composure, so that the truth will always be honored. Christ died in the body, but He was raised bodily in the Spirit.

The Gospel: John 14: 15-21

Our commitment to Christ is proved by works and not merely by words. While Jesus withdraws His visible presence from the world, He does not withdraw His spiritual presence. His love for us is guaranteed.