By our Deeds We Are Known

April 14, Friday in the Octave of Easter
Acts 4:1-12and John 21: 1-14

What labels do people attach to you? By what marks are you known?

In the first reading, the disciples were identified by the miracle that they performed. But they were quick to point out that it was not by their own power but Jesus’. It was not because they were afraid of being arrested. It was a bold expression of their faith in Jesus – that all that is good is only possible through and with Jesus.

Such was the boldness of the disciples because they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Do we have such boldness, too? Do our actions point to Jesus? Do we acknowledge Jesus working in us and through us? Do others experience little miracles when they encounter us?

In the Gospel, Jesus revealed Himself again to the disciples and they recognized Him. When they did realize that it was the Lord, they all obliged to do as He commanded.

Jesus also reveals Himself to us everyday through many opportunities. He reveals Himself to us through the Eucharist. He reveals Himself to us through the weak, the lost, the poor and the little ones. He reveals Himself to us through many opportunities to sacrifice for others that they may also know Him. He reveals Himself to us in our sickness and in our good health. He reveals Himself to us in good days and in bad days.

Do we recognize Him? Do we acknowledge Him? Do we oblige to what He is telling us through the many opportunities to love Him? Or, do we turn a blind eye and ran away? Would others say of us, ‘You are a good Christian!’? What mark do we carry? That of the world or Christ’s?