Gospel: Luke 24: 46-53
In most dioceses in the United States, the Solemnity of the Ascension is celebrated today. As He prepared to return to the Father, Jesus commissioned His disciples to further His ministry by making disciples of all nations through the grace of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Jesus also gave the assurance that He would remain with us until the end of time. This promise is perpetuated at each Eucharistic liturgy through the words “Eta Missa est.” We are commissioned to take Jesus with us when we leave the building so that others may encounter him.
In His last encounter with the disciples before He ascended to the Father, Jesus reminded them that He had to suffer, die and rise. As I embrace my commission and the world into which Jesus sends me, it will be marks of suffering that will distinguish me as a disciple, too. These most likely will not be marks of crucifixion but rather scars of daily thorns and struggles. But what disciple does not take up their daily cross?
As the Easter Season soon comes to a close, may we continue to live in the hope and joy of the Resurrection and Ascension and share this with others.
God Bless!
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
