One of the greatest proofs of Jesus' resurrection is the dramatic transformation of Simon Peter. Peter was transformed from a struggling, insecure, selfish, and fearful disciple into the first leader of the Church. He led three thousand to the Lord at Pentecost and had the power to heal by his very shadow (Acts 5:15-16). He healed the paralytic and even raised the dead (Acts 9:33, 40). He changed from being afraid of suffering (Mk 8:32) to rejoicing in what he suffered for the sake of Jesus (1 Pt 4:13).
Peter's resurrection from the death of sin and self is an almost incontestable proof of Jesus' resurrection from the tomb. It's very difficult for an adult human being to change even a little bit. It's miraculous for a person to change dramatically, quickly, and permanently. The only explanation is that Jesus is alive and pouring out His Spirit.
Are you living proof of a living Jesus? Or are you denying Jesus' resurrection through the paralysis of fear or the death of sin? We are proving something to the world. We are proving either that God is dead or that Jesus lives so death is dead. Come out of the tomb and look alive! Receive risen, abundant life (Jn 10:10).
| PRAYER: | Risen Jesus, may my life contradict the assumptions of the world. |
| PROMISE: | "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe; we are convinced that You are God's Holy One." –Jn 6:68-69 |
| PRAISE: | St. Peter tirelessly worked to spread the good news to places it had never been heard before. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College