The way the Bible is set up causes us to miss some of the intent of St. Luke in writing a two volume work — the gospel that bears his name and the Acts of the Apostles. The Evangelist intended in doing so to highlight that the ministry of Jesus and the life of the Church were one continuous plan of God. The mission of Jesus did not cease at his Ascesnion but is carried on by his followers. They prayed, “Enable your servants to speak your word with all boldness, as you stretch forth your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” For the fifty days of Easter a reading will be taken from the Acts which demonstrates that the Resurrection of Jesus was not just something that happened to him. His transformation from death to Easter life also happened in the lives of those dedicated to his name. From fearful and reluctant they became bold and confident. Easter reminds us that we too have access to the new, fuller life of the Risen Lord.
