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Gospel Reading for June 1, 2025 – Luke 24: 46-53
GREAT JOY
Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord
Jesus said to his disciples: “Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”
Then he led them out as far as Bethany, raised his hands, and blessed them. As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven. They did him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and they were continually in the temple praising God.
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Jesus’ departure from earth was not a sad one. The apostles were with GREAT JOY. Why would they not be overjoyed when Jesus told them he would be sending the promise of the Father upon them and they just had to wait for it to come. Perhaps, during the time between the Resurrection and the Ascension, Jesus gave them so much hope and inspiration to continue what he had started with them, so they were no longer afraid of the Jews. They were no longer afraid to be seen and were continually in the temple praising God.
If we are true followers of Jesus, we will not only resurrect after death on earth, but we will also ascend to the Father in heaven.
Lord Jesus, we thank you for your great sacrifice so we may be redeemed. Inspire us always to continue the work you have done on earth wherever we are!
