As one contemplates the readings for today, particular attention may be drawn to the conclusion of the reading from Acts. We see the Apostles are under question for preaching the Gospel. In an attempt to deter them, the passage says they are flogged and told to stop speaking in the name of Jesus. And what is their response? They rejoice that they’ve been found worthy to suffer and then go and continue doing what they’ve been warned not to do, knowing full well that they’re risking a far more severe punishment. 

The followers of Jesus are clearly a resurrection people. They have experienced a new life and know that the good news of Jesus is far greater than anything this world can threaten or offer. 

Being a resurrection people is not easy. It requires a great deal of courage and discernment about what is the most appropriate way to live a life in Christ. We may not have to face the threat of physical punishment for living our faith, but still must discern how we will live. How will we engage with the people who hold different beliefs than our own? How will we challenge injustices when we witness them? And will we engage in reconciliation when division occurs? 

It can be easy to fall into the trap of believing that being a resurrection people means we will be placed on a pedestal, but as this passage shows, it often means that we will be misunderstood. To be a resurrection people means to continue on, even when we are not accepted, and to do so with a sense of humility. It doesn’t mean embracing a self-indulgent life with views of oneself being better than others. Instead, it means not giving up. We engage in conversation with the other, and we desire to know them better so that we can join together in community. It’s seeing that there is something much bigger than all of us and that we are called to respond to it. 

Earlier in that passage from Acts, we see the line “But if it comes from God, you will not be able to destroy them.” While being a resurrection people comes with its challenges, we are reminded that God does not abandon us. Things will likely never appear in the way we imagine they should, but God will be with us.  

How are you being invited to express the resurrection and live into the Gospel?