living proof
"The next thing he did was to call in those who were believers and the widows to show them that she was alive." —Acts 9:41
One of the greatest proofs of Jesus' resurrection is the dramatic transformation of Simon Peter. Peter was transformed from a struggling, insecure, selfish, and fearful disciple into the first leader of the Church. He led three thousand to the Lord at Pentecost and had the power to heal by his very shadow (Acts 5:15-16). He healed the paralytic and even raised the dead (Acts 9:33, 40). He changed from being afraid of suffering (Mk 8:32) to rejoicing in what he suffered for the sake of Jesus (1 Pt 4:13).
Peter's resurrection from the death of sin and self is an almost incontestable proof of Jesus' resurrection from the tomb. It's very difficult for an adult human being to change even a little bit. It's miraculous for a person to change dramatically, quickly, and permanently. The only explanation is that Jesus is alive and pouring out His Spirit.
Are you living proof of a living Jesus? Or are you denying Jesus' resurrection through the paralysis of fear or the death of sin? We are proving something to the world. We are proving either that God is dead or that Jesus lives so death is dead. Come out of the tomb and look alive! Receive risen, abundant life (Jn 10:10).
Prayer: Risen Jesus, may my life contradict the assumptions of the world.
Promise: "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe; we are convinced that You are God's Holy One." —Jn 6:68-69
Praise: St. Peter tirelessly worked to spread the good news to places it had never been heard before.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape on Jesus, the Redeemer on audio AV 50-3 or video V-50.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 16, 2006
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