Sunday Reflections: Jesus Christ Advocates for Us
Simon Peter's second sermon, delivered in Jerusalem, emphasizes that Jesus is the fulfillment of all Messianic prophecies
Sunday Reflections: Jesus Christ Advocates for Us
Today's readings converge on a central theme that unites them despite their diversity: the remission of sins.
Let us reflect on these passages and the profound message they convey about forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice.
Acts 3:13-15, 17-19: Peter's Preaching in Jerusalem
In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we encounter Peter boldly fulfilling his mission of proclaiming Jesus. His second sermon, delivered in Jerusalem, emphasizes that Jesus is the fulfillment of all Messianic prophecies from the Old Testament.
Peter's words resonate with urgency: “Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away” (Acts 3:19).
Here, we witness the heart of the Gospel—the invitation to turn away from sin and embrace the mercy of God.
1 John 2:1-5a: Our Advocate with the Father
John's letter reinforces the message of forgiveness. He reminds us that we have an Advocate—Jesus Christ—who intercedes for us before the Father.
When we stumble, when guilt weighs heavy upon us, we can find solace in knowing that Jesus pleads our case. His love and sacrifice cover our sins, allowing us to approach God with confidence.
John encourages us to walk in obedience, following the path illuminated by Christ's example.
Luke 24:35-48: Jesus Appears to the Disciples
The Gospel passage transports us to the room where the disciples, still reeling from the events of the crucifixion, encounter the risen Lord. Their hearts oscillate between doubt and wonder.
Jesus, in His resurrected body, stands before them—real, tangible, and alive.
To dispel their fears, He shows them His hands and feet, inviting them to touch Him. He even shares a meal with them, emphasizing His physical presence.
Jesus is not a ghost; He is the living Saviour who conquered sin and death.
Sunday Reflections: Jesus Christ Advocates for Us
Allow me to share a modern parable: In Yugoslavia, a judge suffered an unfortunate accident, pronounced dead, and taken to the funeral home. But in the middle of the night, he regained consciousness. His attempts to reassure loved ones were met with disbelief. People mistook him for a ghost.
Similarly, the disciples grappled with Jesus' resurrection. They needed tangible proof—a living Saviour—to overcome their doubts.
Our faith, like that of the early disciples, must be rooted in the living presence of the risen Lord. We, too, encounter doubts, fears, and guilt.
But Jesus invites us to touch His wounds, to experience His forgiveness firsthand. Let us:
1. Repent: Turn away from sin, just as Peter urged.
2. Embrace Christ's Advocacy: Jesus intercedes for us; His grace wipes away our sins.
3. Bear Witness: Like the disciples, we must share the Good News—the reality of Christ's resurrection—with a world hungry for hope.
The purpose of Jesus' death and resurrection was clear: to save us from our sins. As we gather today, let us renew our commitment to this truth. May our lives bear witness to the forgiveness we have received, and may we extend that forgiveness to others.
In Christ, we find redemption, and through His wounds, we discover healing. Amen.
