The wonderful story of the early church continues this week in Acts of the Apostles. We read of Paul and Barnabas preaching the good news to Gentiles. A major shift occurs after much discussion among the apostles and they pray for guidance: should Gentiles become Jews before becoming Christians? Peter declared that Jews and Gentiles are both "saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus."

The weekday gospels continue with John's nuanced words reminding us again not to be troubled or afraid, but to remain in the love of Jesus. It is that message that we pray with this week as we continue our Easter celebration, filled with the joy of hearing Jesus tell us, “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you."