Meditation: Acts 5:27-33

Saint John Baptist de la Salle, Priest (Memorial)

The high priest questioned them. (Acts 5:27)

What a wild ride! For the past three years, the apostles have abandoned home and careers to follow Jesus. Then, in shock, they watch as he is crucified and buried. Only days later, they step inside his tomb and discover it empty. They have seen Jesus, alive, walk through walls. They felt the fire of Pentecost and have begun performing signs and wonders themselves. And now, they’re being hauled before a grand jury of the Sanhedrin and high priest to answer for the trouble they’ve caused.

Did they really sign up for this roller-coaster life? No. They had no idea what they were getting themselves into when they answered Jesus’ call. They just saw something in him that they were willing to trust, something they were willing to risk their plans for. Perhaps it was his authority and power. Maybe it was his love. Whatever it was, something awakened inside them. When they said yes to him, they stepped out in faith, and their lives were catapulted into an adventure that would leave them changed forever.

It’s true. This adventure of discipleship is fraught with challenge. The psalmist even vented, “Many are the troubles of the just man” (Psalm 34:20)! It’s a sure bet that when we say yes to God, we will eventually experience troubles. Just look at the apostles and the saints. None of them were strangers to hardship. We may focus on the miracles and victories, but there were also persecutions, imprisonments, bullyings, and, for some, martyrdom.

And yet despite all the hardships he faced, John still wrote, “God is trustworthy” (John 3:33). Why? Because he also knew that the Father doesn’t ration his love. He has given his Son and his Spirit to us completely, without reservation.

What does that say to you? Everything! It tells you how deeply God treasures you. He has given everything to you! That’s why you can consider him to be trustworthy.

Whether today feels like Pentecost or a grand jury inquest like the apostles faced, keep giving your yes to Jesus. None of us have any idea what tomorrow holds. But God does, and he has equipped you with everything you need to keep following him. He himself is trustworthy to walk with you in the adventure of a lifetime.

“Lord, I have tasted and seen your goodness. I give my yes to you.”

Psalm 34:2, 9, 17-20
John 3:31-36