(May 17th, 2020)
Acts 8, 5-8 + 14-17; Psalm 66; 1 Peter 3, 15-18; John 14, 15-21.
By +Guy Sansaricq
This Sunday’s readings point to both the upcoming feasts of the Ascension and of Pentecost.
The feast of the Ascension this coming Thursday marks the conclusion of the earthly Mission of Jesus. He is solemnly enthroned in heaven where He receives every authority and power. The Church urges us to celebrate this event with great joy as it initiates another form of relationship between Jesus and us. “I will not leave you orphans.” “I am with the Father and you are in me and I in you.” While He appears to have gone, He is with us until the end of time. Alleluia!
Another outstanding feast will follow ten days later: the feast of Pentecost. It’s the day of the fulfillment of THE PROMISE, the advent of ANOTHER ADVOCATE, the Spirit of truth.
Let us strive to grasp the supreme significance of these two great liturgical feasts. St Peter in the second reading warns us that we must “sanctify the Lord in our hearts and always keep a clear conscience.” May we burn with the desire to share the glory of the Lamb once slain but now victorious forever! ALLELUIA! ALLELUIA! His very Spirit is now our treasure!
“SHOUT JOYFULLY TO GOD, SEE HIS TREMENDOUS DEEDS AMONG THE CHILDREN OF MEN”