Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: April 22, 2025

Tuesday in the Octave of Easter

Scripture Text: Acts 2:36-41

On the day of Pentecost, Peter said to the Jewish people, “Let the whole house of Israel know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and they asked Peter and the other Apostles, “What are we to do, my brothers?” Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is made to you and to your children and to all those far off, whomever the Lord our God will call.” He testified with many other arguments, and was exhorting them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand persons were added that day.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for today from Acts recounts part of Peter’s address on Pentecost. He proclaims Jesus Christ as Lord. Those listening sought direction, and Peter exhorted them to “repent and be baptized.” And that day, 3,000 were baptized.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I give witness to Jesus Christ as Lord? Do I share my faith in Christ with others?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, we continue to give You thanks for the gift of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ for our salvation and the promise of life in abundance with You. We ask for the gifts of the Spirit so that we might have the courage to speak of Christ to others and invite them to open themselves to conversion of mind, heart and soul. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.