God Over Men

April 20, Thursday of the Second Week of Easter
Readings: Acts 5:27-33; John 3:31-36

Sometimes we are caught in a difficult situation and do not know whom to listen to. Do we follow the majority or the minority? But everyone’s doing it, so we might as well do it. If you can’t beat ‘em, join 'em,' as they say.
 
In the first reading, the apostles were once again reprimanded by the Sanhedrin for continuing to preach despite being told not to. Peter responded, "We must obey God rather than men.”
 
Young people tend to believe their friends more than their parents. People tend to believe these so-called influencers rather than do their research and find out the truth behind something. There is also a tendency to think about a neighbor’s gossip rather than get the whole story from the person involved. Worse, people tend to pass on these false stories to their family and friends without knowing that they have become an accessory to the downfall of the person who is the subject of the gossip.
 
“The one who comes from above is above all. The one who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of earthly things.”
 
It is hard to listen and follow what is righteous because people will make fun of us or be disgusted with us. But the Lord will surely accompany us as we swim against the tide. “Whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him.” This wrath might lead us straight to damnation.
 
May we be brave to follow the path the Lord has laid out for us? He has already shone His light on us; let us observe that light. Just like Peter and the apostles, may we be firm in the faith and become proclaimers of the truth.