Now the Risen Lord himself appears to the disciples. Jesus eats fish to demonstrate that he is really alive, not a ghost. He tells the disciples not to be afraid. On the contrary, they are to become brave witnesses. Jesus' suffering, death and resurrection have brought us forgiveness of sins. Jesus wants all nations to know about and receive this great gift! The disciples are to be his messengers, his witnesses.

We see Peter doing just this in the first reading. A miracle has occurred - a man lame from birth has just been healed. Peter takes this opportunity to witness to Jesus in three ways:

First, Peter makes it clear that this healing power does not come from himself. Jesus' name and faith in Jesus have healed this man completely (Acts 3:16).

Second, Jesus is the Servant of God, the long-foretold Messiah and the author of life. Even though the Jewish leaders killed him, God has raised Jesus from the dead.

Third, all this relates to them personally. Jesus invites each person now to turn to God and put away sin.

Today, which of these three points strikes your heart most?