Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“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.” Today is the Feast of the Ascension of our Lord. The Gospel reading (Matthew 28:16-20) is a very short passage from the very end of Matthew talking about the departure of Christ. The eleven disciples have joined Jesus on the mountain and the gospel reading say, “And when they saw him they worshiped him; but some doubted.” After everything that has happened, some of the disciples still had doubt when they arrive at the mountain. But seeing the risen Christ, the disciples adore Him and acknowledge Him as God and the fear must instantly go away. They are overcome by the situation and the glory and power which emanates from Christ. On this day, Jesus’ physical time on earth comes to and end, but his spiritual mission is just beginning. Jesus tells them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. “ This means that Jesus has all the powers of God and he promises to send forth the Holy Spirit to be with them and guide them. Jesus commands the Apostles to go out to all nations and bring them into the fold “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This mission was passed onto the Apostles who have passed it onto their successors and eventually the same mission is passed onto us. The church has a never ending commitment to share the Word of God. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit down to aid the Apostles. That same Holy Spirit is alive in us and with us today. We should all feel the call to go forth and spread the good news of his salvation and saving grace. What can you do today to spread the word of God? This best message you can give someone is through your actions and the way you live your life. If you live by the word of God, your message will come across load and clear. When someone meets you, can they tell that you are a follower of Christ.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, you have given me the gift of the Holy Spirit.

It has come down upon me in my baptism.

May I live to cherish and spread the absolute joy of this gift.

May I be an example for others seeking your grace.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon