Acts 5:12-26
The author of the Acts of the Apostles tells us stories of Peter and John and the other apostles following the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. These "uneducated and ordinary men" (Acts 4:13) are empowered to preach and heal with boldness and thousands in the city of Jerusalem believe their message about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The community of followers of Jesus grew (and experienced growing pains). And there was push back. The apostles were arrested, interrogated, threatened and ordered not to preach or teach in the name of Jesus, released, and in today's reading they are arrested again, miraculously freed, and then brought into custody once again.
The telling of stories is powerful. In the face of threats, and attempts to silence the apostles, they continue to stand in the temple and tell their story about what happened to Jesus. The worshipers are amazed; the religious authorities are annoyed, embarrassed, challenged, and threatened.
Pray for people throughout the world who have stories to tell that challenge the status quo and prevailing understandings of situations. Pray for people throughout the world who, this very day, are experiencing efforts by others to discount or silence their stories. Pray for places of genuine dialogue among nations, religions, and wherever there are divisions and conflicts. Pray for the courage to tell your stories and to listen to the stories of others.
Marilyn Malton
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