Believers

Today’s readings offer starkly contrasting pictures of the Apostles following the resurrection.

In the Gospel (Mk. 16:9-15), they are thrice described as not believing news of the resurrection (and are subsequently rebuked by the risen Lord himself).

In the first reading (Acts 4:13-21), the Apostles are in-your-face believers with a capital “B.”

Judge for yourselves
whether it is right in God's sight
to obey you rather than God.
For we cannot help speaking about
what we have seen and heard.

And their enemies “recognized that they had been with Jesus.”

Would we be recognized as believers? Would we be recognized as companions of Christ?

Strengthen me, O Lord.

Alleluia!