Wellspring of the Gospel


Year C: Ascension

First Reading: Acts 1: 1-11

It is generally accepted that Luke wrote not only his Gospel but also the Acts of the Apostles. So, as well as hearing one account of Jesus' Ascension in the Gospel today, we hear a rather more extended one in the First Reading.

This version acts as a kind of pivot or hinge - leading us from the active, earthly ministry of Jesus to the acts of those whom he has commissioned to take his message out into the world and into history. And so we have a resume of what has gone before - a reminder of Jesus' promise of a baptism in the Holy Spirit - an affirmation of the role of his witnesses - his ascension - and then a moment similar to one encountered several times in Scriptures... a moment of gazing spellbound - wanting to hold onto a moment of grace - of wanting to cling to what has been.

As they are staring, we are told, two men in white - angels, perhaps - interrupt and ask what they are waiting for? Why gaze after one who has resumed his place in heaven when their place is to build the kingdom in readiness for his return?

During Easter-time, we hear from the Acts of the Apostles - of the trials and successes that went into building the very early Church. Today, we can recall some of the things we have heard and read and reflect on the fact that we too are his witnesses. We are not called to spend our days gazing into space - though time contemplating the grandeur of God is never wasted - but to share our knowledge of Jesus with others.

Jesus' earthly work may be complete - ours continues through the life and power of the Spirit at work within us.

What does it mean for me?

Waterlily What are the key moments in your Christian life - the things that have brought you to this point?

Spend some time giving thanks for all that has been... and ask God's blessing on all that is to come.


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