This is the season of the year in which there is a clear contrast between confusion and clarity and the consequences of each. In the Gospel, after the resurrection of Jesus, the Apostles are fishing. They fished all night and caught nothing. Jesus comes along and has them throw their nets into the opposite side of the boat and they catch a netful of fish. Peter seems clear, but the others are not sure who this man is who is now cooking breakfast for them. These are the men who hide in the upper room before the Spirit descends upon them.
In contrast, Peter and John in the first reading stand in their integrity and belief in the Risen Lord, healing the sick and teaching the people. They are so confident in the gift of faith they have been given, that they are willing to go to jail for those beliefs. It’s not the first occasion of civil disobedience in the Bible, but it is a strong example.
In this season of the celebration of the Resurrection, let us reflect on the confusion or on the clarity in our own lives. Am I willing to go to jail for my beliefs? Will I stand in my integrity no matter the consequences?