The Ascension of the Lord (Seventh Sunday of Easter)
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Today's Word
Acts 1:1-11; Eph 1:17-23; Mk 16:15-20 Read at USCCB
Real Talk
Jesus spent forty days after the resurrection appearing to the disciples and talking about the Kingdom of God. Then he gathered them, told them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit, and was lifted up into a cloud. They stood there staring at the sky until two guys in white showed up and basically said: why are you looking up there? He's gone. He'll come back the same way. Now go.
The Ascension is not the departure of Jesus from the story. He gets enthroned above every power and authority that exists - far above all of it - as the head of the Church, which is his body. The body is still here. You are part of it. The power that raised him from the dead is the same power that is at work in those who believe. That includes you.
Paul prays that the eyes of our hearts would be enlightened - not just our minds, but our hearts - so we could actually see the hope and the power that are already ours. The disciples had to stop staring at the sky to go receive it. Same for us.
One Prayer
Lord, enlighten the eyes of my heart. Let me see what is actually true - that you are enthroned above everything, that your power is at work in me, that the Spirit is coming. Help me stop staring at the sky and go. Alleluia. Amen.
Your Challenge
The disciples were told to wait in Jerusalem before going anywhere. The power comes before the mission. This week, before you try to do anything for God, spend ten minutes receiving - in prayer, in silence, in the Eucharist if you can get there. Wait for the power. Then go.
You are not alone. Submit your intentions and they'll be carried to Holy Hour this Sunday.
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