A Long Line of Witnesses

  In his last words before leaving the disciples to return to heaven, Jesus summarizes for them what he has been teaching them.  "This is what is written:  The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.  You are witnesses of these things" (Luke 24:46-48).  We  have had this theme of being witnesses since Easter.  The women, the apostles and various disciples were witnesses to Jesus' life, death and resurrection.  It was important to have witnesses so that people would not think it was just an incredible story that had been made up.
  When we become Christians we too become witnesses to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.  In fact, we join a long line of witnesses going back to the apostles.  A Catholic friend of mine once explained it this way:  I want to be able to shake the hand of the pastor, who shook the hand of the local bishop, who shook the hand of the Bishop of Rome, who shook the hand of the Pope before him, on back to the one who shook the hand of Peter, who shook the hand of Jesus.
  For reflection:  What kind of witness am I?  Am I a strong witness or a weak witness?  How can I become a better witness?
  Let us pray.  Lord Jesus, thank you for all the witnesses who came before me.  Thank you for those who witnessed specifically to me.  I want to be a better witness for you.  What do I need to do?

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