You are witnesses

Some places have lawfully transferred the celebration of the Ascension to today; others celebrate today the seventh Sunday of Easter (having celebrated the Ascension on its proper day). As on Thursday, therefore, the readings differ, depending upon whether Ascension is being celebrated today or not.

A key theme of both readings, however, is the task our Lord gives us: to be his witnesses to the world.

In the Gospel for the Ascension (Luke 24:46-53), having spoke of his death and resurrection, our Lord reminds the Disciples: “You are witnesses of these things.”

This task belongs to us. It is a glorious yet challenging responsibility.

But the Lord Jesus Christ gives us the grace to do it. Indeed, in the Gospel of the Sunday (John 17:20-26) our Lord gives us the all-powerful support of his prayers.

I pray not only for them,
but also for those
who will believe in me through their word...

May we go forward in the power of that prayer and with the help of the Holy Spirit be witnesses of the things of God.