Did Jesus and his followers seek revenge for the killing of Jesus? No, the First Reading for today shows St Peter inviting his fellow Jews to repent: "Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out." (Acts 3: 19) God did not give up on the Jewish people and nor does he give up on us. Jesus did not give up on the disciples who were on the way to the Emmaus and away from the rest of the community. Likewise, God does not give up on us or anyone who turns away from him but rather calls them to return and receive the benefit of his love and joy which is the fruit of the resurrection. Let us, therefore, not be pessimistic or full of anger towards a society, in the West, that has repudiated the Lord. We can hear St Peter say also to them: "And now, friends, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers." (Acts 3: 17) It can be difficult because our feelings can be hurt by the actions of those who demonize the Catholic Church. Nevertheless, the Second Reading reminds us: "...he (Jesus) is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for us only but also for the sins of the whole world." (1 Jn 2: 2) His love is for everyone including those who persecute him and his Church.
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