We all know the power of a personal witness to make a story come alive. “I was there,” a person says, and our ears perk up to hear what they have to share, especially if they’re talking about one of those, “larger than life” type events. From the moment of Jesus’ ascension, his witnesses — the disciples — caught people’s attention. Who were these people, constantly in the temple praising God? What is the forgiveness of sins they’re talking about? Did they really know Jesus? The early Church grew rapidly as the disciples shared what they’d seen and heard, and as others carried their testimony to the ends of the earth by preaching and by inviting others to join the gospel way of life. Have you had people in your life that have convinced you that the faith is credible? That believing in Jesus’ resurrection makes a difference in the way someone lives? And are you that person for someone else?
- Reflection by Elizabeth Hansen in “Celebrating Sunday for Catholic Families 2024-25” published by Liturgy Training Publications.