A homily for the Third Sunday of Easter, May 1, 2022
Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41, Rev 5:11-14, Jn 21:1-19
After Russia invaded Ukraine in February, the Kremlin ordered steep fines and lengthy prison terms for anyone caught protesting against the so-called “special military operation.”
Thousands took to the streets in cities all over Russia, in defiance of the order.
After it became clear that the U.S. military presence in Vietnam was ill-advised and that there was growing discontent among citizens, especially young people, cities ordered curfews and demanded that groups apply for permits before exercising their First Amendment rights.
Tens of thousands took to the streets in cities all over America, in defiance of the orders.
After it became painfully obvious that skin color was being used as a reason to deny Americans their God-given inalienable rights, and that disenfranchised people planned to demonstrate and defy Jim Crow laws, states ordered lockdowns and warned of massive legal and extra-legal punishments.
Millions took to the streets in cities all over America, in defiance of the orders and threats.
Just as a handful of believers did in the First Century.
