although some doubted.” All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go,
therefore, and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the Name of the Father and
of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to observe all that I have commanded
you. I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”
READ: The readings today offer two recounting of Jesus’ Ascension into heaven
forty days after his Resurrection. Having accompanied his disciples during those
days, helping them to understand what had happened and what they were to do.
Jesus returned to his Father in heaven. As Paul tells the Ephesians, the Ascension
shows the glory that God has revealed in Christ, a glory he calls us to share.
REFLECT: The final line of today’s Gospel is one of the most comforting lines in all
of Scripture: I am with you always, even to the end of the world. This line reminds
us that we are never alone and that God will never abandon us. As followers of
Christ we are called to accompany those around us, helping them to feel God’s
presence through our loving service. Even when all seems lost and anxiety and
depression seem to fill our hearts and cloud our minds, Jesus is present. He holds
us close, offering us his grace and reminding us that he will walk with us through
whatever we may face and ultimately bring us to be with him in heaven forever.
PRAY: Lord, help me to be more aware of your presence near me.
ACT: End each day by reflecting about ways you were aware of God’s presence.
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