There is a theme today in the readings: obedience. We hear Peter and the Apostles talk about it in the first reading from Acts 5. And in the Gospel reading from John 3 we read, “Whoever disobeys the Son will not see life.”
Peter and the Apostles are dragged before the Sanhedrin, the high court of the Jews. The high priest reminds them that they were given strict orders to “stop teaching in that name.” But Peter and the Apostles answer, “We must obey God rather than men.” While that seems like a pretty simple statement on the surface, let’s dig a little deeper. Because this can very often be much easier said than done.
Have you ever been asked to do something unethical or immoral? Perhaps at work? Maybe gotten into a situation where peer pressure is bearing down on you? You know that what has been asked of you is not right. You know that God would not be happy with your actions. Situations like this happen all the time. How often do we take the side of God? Do we stand up for what is right? Or do we go along to get along. In the end, obeying God can be really difficult. But it is always the right thing to do.
Father, forgive us for those times when we cave in to pressure and obey men, when it is against your will. Give us the courage and strength to always obey you. Amen.
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