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We are witnesses
We are witnesses of these things, as is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Did you see it? What happened? Everyone is talking about it. I know someone who saw it. I talked to witnesses. There is something very powerful to be connected to something or someone famous.
But normally people who are famous talk about themselves. They often want people to notice them. They want people to recognize them for their talents, money, looks or fame. They often seek out the spotlight.
The apostles in today’s first reading are different. They do not want to make themselves famous. They are focused in every way to draw their attention to someone else. They can only talk about Jesus, his victory, and about the many wonderful things that Jesus has done for them and others.
To be a witness involves sight, words, and action. And depending upon what they are witnessing to, the importance and priority of these things varies. But for the apostles in today’s first reading, being a witness means turning peoples’ attention away from themselves, and towards Jesus.
And because their witness is authentic, the apostles are able to convince others to grow in relationship with Jesus. Because the spotlight is not upon themselves, but upon the one in whose name they preach, there are more and more people coming to hear them speak all the time.
And rather than feel happy about this success, the Sadducees allow their jealousy to overcome them. The do not like the large crowds, for they do not believe in any resurrection. But the jealousy and persecution will not stop these witnesses. No, these witnesses are filled with the Holy Spirit, making them able to speak out boldly in the name of Jesus.
I know in my life I can find it challenging to speak the truth in the face of harm. But this does not keep me from becoming a witness. It only lets me know I need to open myself more fully to the Holy Spirit.
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