The Ascension of the Lord
Acts 1:1-11 - Eph 1:17-23 - Mt 28:16-20
The Call to Discipleship: Living in the Power of God's Love
Solemnity of the Ascension
Today, our hearts are invited to open with awe and wonder as we gather to reflect upon the profound words of Jesus the Christ. In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a scene that evokes both joy and reverence. The disciples, who had faithfully followed Jesus throughout His ministry, find themselves standing on a mountain in the presence of the risen Lord. Can you imagine the mixture of emotions that must have surged through their souls in that sacred moment? They had witnessed His miracles, heard His teachings, and shared in His sorrows. And now, here He stood before them, triumphant over death, a testament to the power of God’s love.
In this encounter, Jesus speaks words that reverberate through the ages and touch the depths of our hearts. He commissions His disciples, entrusting them with a mission of eternal significance. “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
What a tremendous responsibility! Jesus calls each one of us, as His disciples today, to continue this mission. We are entrusted with the task of spreading the Good News, baptizing and teaching others, guiding them to embrace the love and grace of God. It is a call that demands our utmost dedication and commitment, but it is also an invitation to participate in the greatest adventure of all time— to proclaim the truth of God’s unconditional love and extend the invitation to live fully in it.
Do not be afraid! Jesus assures us of His abiding presence as we embark on this sacred journey. He promises, “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Take rest in these words, for they are our strength and a source of renewal for our weary hearts. In times of doubt, in moments of weakness, let us remember that the risen Jesus stands by our side, guiding us, empowering us, and pouring His divine love through us.
Today, and every day, let us embrace our mission with enthusiasm and compassion. Let us be witnesses of Christ’s resurrection, living testimonies of His saving grace. May our actions speak louder than words, and may our love be a beacon that draws others to the embrace of our Loving God.
Give your all to this call! Be confident in the presence of Jesus the Christ. Let us, with every breath, bring hope to the hopeless, healing to the broken, peace to the distraught, justice to the oppressed, truth to those living in deception, and love to the lost. We are not alone. We carry within us the power of Jesus the Christ, and with His strength, nothing is impossible. Blessings!
Sr. Didi Madden, OP