The first reading today has to be read in the context of the experience of the Israelites after escaping from Pharaoh and his army while crossing the Red Sea (Ex. 15). Just as Moses and the people celebrated their victory, the Christians of the early Church celebrated and gave thanks to God for the release of Peter and John from captivity at the hands of the Jewish leaders. Their prayer celebrates the fulfillment of Psalm 2:1-2, which had prophesied that the kings and rulers of the world would be helpless against God and his anointed Messiah. King Herod and the Jewish leaders, as well as, the emperor of Rome and the Romans, were unable to prevent the Messiah, who although he was killed by them, rose from the dead and now reigns as king of heaven.

In fighting God, the Jews and Romans had fulfilled what God had planned all along. This victory over the kings and rulers of the world, had assured the Christians as they faced continued threats from the Jewish leaders. Just as Peter and John had overcome the Jewish leaders, they too will be able to overcome all future threats through God's continued intervention. As the community prayed, all were filled with the Holy Spirit. This was God's approval of them despite harassments from the Jewish leaders. God never abandons his people. Even when matters seem hopeless or dangerous, we must remember that God has assured us of his continued presence with us.