We gave you strict orders did we not,
to stop teaching in that name.
Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching
and want to bring this man’s blood upon us.
But Peter and the Apostles said in reply,
We must obey God rather than men.
— Acts 5 27-33
May the peace of the Lord be with you. Sometimes in life we face difficult decisions. We definitely see that in the case of Peter and the apostles today as they stand before a governing body, once again, that is asking them to do something that is contrary to what God is asking them to do.
At times we may feel this way, at times it may be hard to discern if we are actually following God’s will, or if something is leading us astray. I think a key element in this reading is that it is not just Peter speaking and acting — it is Peter and the community. In this instance, the community are the apostles. Sometimes we need to test our reality, and that means sometimes touching base with our community.
As I said a few days ago, God’s will is discernible, but we must be careful. The community can help us to discern, remain consistent, and remind us of our traditions and God’s teachings. It’s once again a reminder that we do not walk alone, but that we need each other — we need consciences that are informed by God’s wisdom, rather than by human wisdom. May the blessings of Almighty God be with you today. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.