“What are we to do with these men? Everyone living in Jerusalem knows that a remarkable sign was done through them, and we cannot deny it.
But so that it may not be spread any further among the people, let us give them a stern warning never again to speak to anyone in this name.”
So they called them back and ordered them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus.
Peter and John, however, said to them in reply, “Whether it is right in the sight of God for us to obey you rather than God, you be the judges.
It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard.”
After threatening them further, they released them, finding no way to punish them, on account of the people who were all praising God for what had happened. (Acts 4:16-21 NABRE)
Not long after Jesus left them, his disciples were confronted by the religious establishment for curing a cripple in Jesus' name. There is much to consider in this story, but what strikes me most is the acknowledgement that what they had done was a remarkable sign.
In today's hurried times, we are rarely if ever ready to admit when a miracle takes place. And it is a shame really that we prefer to put our faith elsewhere. Miracles happen every day. For the person who willingly decides to believe first and to accept proof second, these ordinary, extraordinary events become remarkable signs of God's desire for us to turn to him.
Today, I will turn to the Lord, recognizing the remarkable signs in my own life, and seeking his Divine Mercy.
Saint Francis of Paola, known as the "man of Lent," for your life of penance, pray for us.
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