Lectionary readings for Sunday 19th April 2020 – Easter 2 (Year A)

• Acts 2:14a, 22-32
• Ps 16
• 1 Pt 1:3-9
• Jn 20:19-31

In our lectionary reading today from Acts, we see Peter speaking to the crowds after the disciples had received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. This is in fact the very first gospel sermon ever preached. Peter explains, with the help of scripture, that Jesus of Nazareth was a man who lived and died and was then resurrected by God.

The significance of this is not lost on those who hear this message. It is at their hands that their long awaited Messiah was crucified. However, they also understand the message of salvation that comes with the gospel message. By the grace and mercy of God, even a sin as grievous as crucifying God’s son does exclude them from the blessings God offers.

This message of the gospel has not changed in 2000 years. Romans 8:38-39 tells us that no matter what we may have done in our lives “nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” By God’s grace, through the blood of Christ, we are forgiven and have received new life.

Here is an inspiring song called The Gospel : by Ryan Stevenson