Memorial of Saint Justin, Martyr

Proper readings for the Memorial of St. Justin 

Biographical information about St. Justin

 

“St. Justin, Martyr, Patron of the Destitute”
from an antique holy card,
artist and date are unknown

Readings for Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter [1]
 
Readings from the Jerusalem Bible [2]
 
Readings and Commentary:[3]
 
Reading 1: Acts 20:28-38

At Miletus, Paul spoke to the presbyters of the Church of Ephesus:
"Keep watch over yourselves and over the whole flock
of which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers,
in which you tend the Church of God
that he acquired with his own Blood.
I know that after my departure savage wolves will come among you,
and they will not spare the flock.
And from your own group, men will come forward perverting the truth
to draw the disciples away after them.
So be vigilant and remember that for three years, night and day,
I unceasingly admonished each of you with tears.
And now I commend you to God
and to that gracious word of his that can build you up
and give you the inheritance among all who are consecrated.
I have never wanted anyone's silver or gold or clothing.
You know well that these very hands
have served my needs and my companions.
In every way I have shown you that by hard work of that sort
we must help the weak,
and keep in mind the words of the Lord Jesus who himself said,
'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"
When he had finished speaking
he knelt down and prayed with them all.
They were all weeping loudly
as they threw their arms around Paul and kissed him,
for they were deeply distressed that he had said
that they would never see his face again.
Then they escorted him to the ship.
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Commentary on Acts 20:28-38

St. Paul is speaking to the presbyters that have been appointed over the various communities around Ephesus (a very large city at the time). He has already explained that he is returning to Jerusalem and does not believe he will see them again. Now he tells them to be on guard against false prophets and teachers, and against members of their own communities who will spread dissension. He reminds them finally to keep focused on the Lord’s commands and to remain charitable, supporting the community through work, rather than accepting payment for their leadership (using himself as an example).
 
CCC: Acts 20:32 798; Acts 20:36 2636
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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 68:29-30, 33-35a, 35bc-36ab

R. (33a) Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Show forth, O God, your power,
the power, O God, with which you took our part;
For your temple in Jerusalem
let the kings bring you gifts.
R. Sing to God, O Kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.

You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God,
chant praise to the Lord
who rides on the heights of the ancient heavens.
Behold, his voice resounds, the voice of power:
"Confess the power of God!"
R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.

Over Israel is his majesty;
his power is in the skies.
Awesome in his sanctuary is God, the God of Israel;
he gives power and strength to his people.
R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.
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Commentary on Ps 68:29-30, 33-35a, 35bc-36ab

Psalm 68 continues the psalmist's hymn of thanksgiving. It sings of the great favor the Lord has shown to his chosen people. It rejoices in God’s salvation.  The psalmist exhorts the faithful to "confess the power of God" which gives them strength.

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Gospel: John 17:11b-19

Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed, saying:
"Holy Father, keep them in your name
that you have given me,
so that they may be one just as we are one.
When I was with them I protected them in your name that you gave me,
and I guarded them, and none of them was lost
except the son of destruction,
in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled.
But now I am coming to you.
I speak this in the world
so that they may share my joy completely.
I gave them your word, and the world hated them,
because they do not belong to the world
any more than I belong to the world.
I do not ask that you take them out of the world
but that you keep them from the Evil One.
They do not belong to the world
any more than I belong to the world.
Consecrate them in the truth.
Your word is truth.
As you sent me into the world,
so I sent them into the world.
And I consecrate myself for them,
so that they also may be consecrated in truth."
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Commentary on Jn 17:11b-19

This passage is a continuation of the “High Priestly Prayer” started earlier in St. John’s Gospel (John 17:1-11a). This part of the prayer begins with a plea for unity between the Father and the disciples (note the reference here to Judas Iscariot as the “son of destruction"). Still speaking directly to God, Jesus again says he is going to the Father, and that the disciples should share his joy at this prospect. He then asks the Father to keep them safe from the poison of sin (similar here to the petition in the Lord’s Prayer) and to consecrate them in truth (defining truth as God’s word). In this instance “but that you keep them from the Evil One,” it appears to refer specifically to the devil as opposed to some generic evil.
 
Clear reference is given here about how the world will receive these friends he sends into the world (“I gave them your word, and the world hated them”). This is why he asks at the outset: "Holy Father, keep them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one just as we are one.”
 
CCC: Jn 17:11 2747, 2749, 2750, 2750, 2815, 2849; Jn 17:12 2750, 2750; Jn 17:13 2747, 2749; Jn 17:15 2750, 2850; Jn 17:17-20 2821; Jn 17:17-19 2812; Jn 17:17 2466; Jn 17:18 858; Jn 17:19 611, 2747, 2749, 2812
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Reflection:

“They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world.”

Think of what Jesus meant by this prayer to the Father! We do not belong to the world, yet, like the Lord when he was in the flesh, we walk in the world and must be part of it. But we do not belong to it. Is it any wonder that we sometimes feel out of place?

The Lord is fond of using parables. In his prayer, specifically in this part of his prayer, he implies that we are like seasoning in a dish to be placed in front of the king. Without the seasoning of the Good News, the dish that is the human race tastes wrong; something important is missing. It is the Good News the Lord brings that transforms the dish into something pleasant, into something delicious, that the king will enjoy and savor.

We become that seasoning which is not part of the dish. However, it is necessary for the offering to be pleasing to our King. All parts of the dish are flavored by seasoning. Just so, we reach out to all parts of the world, changing it by our presence but not being changed by it.
 
In order for us to remain unchanged by the world, there must be something about us that keeps us effectively unchanged by the parts of the world we encounter.  That is difficult; we must have at the core of our being an indelible character that can withstand the natural human tendency to adapt itself, to follow the path of least resistance.  As we have been warned so many times, the world does not like what is not its own.  And because we belong to Christ we do not belong to the world.
 
So how do we develop that indelible character, this non-negotiable set of values that makes us change what we encounter and not be changed by it?  It is our faith in Christ.  Our sure and certain knowledge that his will supersedes ours when it comes to our lives on earth.  It is his love for us that transforms us, makes us seasoning for those we meet.  They see in us the love of Christ, a love that shines out from us in the form of peace in the face of adversity, in compassion in the face of injustice or injury, and in our actions in support of those we meet, inviting them to share what we have been given.
 
We keep this core of faith alive and healthy with the sacraments: Eucharist, Reconciliation, and, when we are ill, Anointing of the Sick.  We feed ourselves with prayer and allow prayer to guide us in our actions.

Today we hear Christ calling us to be in the world but not belong to it. We are to season those we encounter with the attitude of Christ who is love. May we live up to that great call.

Pax

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[1] The picture is “St. Justin, Martyr, Patron of the Destitute” from an antique holy card, artist and date are unknown.
[2] S.S. Commemoratio
[3] The readings are taken from the New American Bible, with the exception of the psalm and its response which were developed by the International Committee for English in Liturgy (ICEL). This republication is not authorized by USCCB and is for private use only.

Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Information about the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary 

“The Visitation”
by Tintoretto, 1588

Readings for the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary [1]

Readings from the Jerusalem Bible [2]

Readings and Commentary: [3]

Reading 1: Zephaniah 3:14-18a
Shout for joy, O daughter Zion!
Sing joyfully, O Israel!
Be glad and exult with all your heart,
O daughter Jerusalem!
The LORD has removed the judgment against you,
he has turned away your enemies;
The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst,
you have no further misfortune to fear.
On that day, it shall be said to Jerusalem:
Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged!
The LORD, your God, is in your midst,
a mighty savior;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
and renew you in his love,
He will sing joyfully because of you,
as one sings at festivals.
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Commentary on Zep 3:14-18a
The Prophet Zephaniah begins this passage with an exaltation of praise to God. His invitation sounds in the present tense, but then he says: “On that day, it shall be said to Jerusalem,” which places the event, the rejoicing over the Lord God being in their midst, in the future. In effect, this is a prediction of events to come. Zephaniah also includes the effects of God’s presence as he continues: “a mighty savior; he will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love.”
 
We hear the expectation of the Messiah: “The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst.” In this case the effects of the Messiah on the people are the focus. The prophet proclaims a renewal of God's loving adoption and the joy felt by the Father at his favorite creation.
 
CCC: Zep 3:14 722, 2676; Zep 3:17a 2676; Zep 3:17b 2676
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Or: Romans 12:9-16

Brothers and sisters: Let love be sincere;
hate what is evil,
hold on to what is good;
love one another with mutual affection;
anticipate one another in showing honor.
Do not grow slack in zeal,
be fervent in spirit,
serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope,
endure in affliction,
persevere in prayer.
Contribute to the needs of the holy ones,
exercise hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you,
bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice,
weep with those who weep.
Have the same regard for one another,
do not be haughty but associate with the lowly;
do not be wise in your own estimation.
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Commentary on Rom 12:9-16

St. Paul gives a litany of instructions to those who wish to remain faithful to Christ’s teachings. He is speaking to a community that is one in faith in Christ. He tells the community that, in their union, the gifts of each must serve the needs of all, and these gifts need to be exercised. In this selection the evangelist gives a litany of exhortations to live the love of Christ, following his command to love one another sincerely, and to forgive those who persecute them.
 
CCC: Rom 12-15 1454, 1971; Rom 12:9-13 1971; Rom 12:11 2039; Rom 12:12 1820; Rom 12:14 1669, 2636
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Responsorial Psalm: Isaiah 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6

R. (6) Among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.

God indeed is my savior;
I am confident and unafraid.
My strength and my courage is the LORD,
and he has been my savior.
With joy you will draw water
at the fountain of salvation.
R. Among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.

Give thanks to the LORD, acclaim his name;
among the nations make known his deeds,
proclaim how exalted is his name.
R. Among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.

Sing praise to the LORD for his glorious achievement;
let this be known throughout all the earth.
Shout with exultation, O city of Zion,
for great in your midst
is the Holy One of Israel!
R. Among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.
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Commentary on Is 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6

This hymn of praise is a profession of faith: “My strength and my courage is the Lord, and he has been my savior.” It also does something interesting in that it challenges those who profess their faith in the Lord to proclaim it in the world: “among the nations make known his deeds, proclaim how exalted is his name.”
 
This canticle emphasizes the peace and confidence found in his servant, enjoying the salvation of God. He sings his praise to God and exhorts all of Israel to praise him as they see his constant presence among them in the blessings they receive.
 
CCC: Is 12:3 2561
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Gospel: Luke 1:39-56

Mary set out
and traveled to the hill country in haste
to a town of Judah,
where she entered the house of Zechariah
and greeted Elizabeth.
When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting,
the infant leaped in her womb,
and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit,
cried out in a loud voice and said,
"Most blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb.
And how does this happen to me,
that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears,
the infant in my womb leaped for joy.
Blessed are you who believed
that what was spoken to you by the Lord
would be fulfilled."
And Mary said:
"My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord;
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children for ever."
Mary remained with her about three months
and then returned to her home.
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Commentary on Lk 1:39-56

The Gospel selection from St. Luke gives us the story of Mary’s journey from Nazareth, over the mountains to Hebron, south of Jerusalem, to visit her cousin St. Elizabeth, who was also with child. St. Elizabeth’s greeting gives us substance for the “Hail Mary,” and Mary’s response is the great Canticle of Mary, which exemplifies her faith and faithfulness appropriate for the Mother of Jesus, who is the Christ.
 
Mary’s meeting with Elizabeth follows the annunciation by Gabriel that she would carry the Son of God, which proclaims the coming of the Lord, and the faith of Mary before the nativity event. We note that Elizabeth is first to identify Jesus as Lord as she says: “how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” She not only professes the identity of the infant, but foreshadows Mary’s leadership standing, elevating the stature of her much younger cousin with reverence. Elizabeth continues her praise of Mary by establishing that her (Mary’s) faith had allowed her to accept even the incredible role God had offered her.
 
In response we hear Mary’s humility as she gives us the Magnificat: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior.” This opening phrase establishes that the Blessed Mother gives herself to God eternally (her eternal self or soul) and completely (the very core of her being or spirit). What follows in her great song is an abject expression of faith in the Father’s omnipotence, and her own humility and awe in the face of his request of her to carry God’s only Son.
 
CCC: Lk 1:41 523, 717, 2676; Lk 1:43 448, 495, 2677; Lk 1:45 148, 2676; Lk 1:46-55 722, 2619, 2675; Lk 1:46-49 2097; Lk 1:48 148, 971, 2676, 2676; Lk 1:49 273, 2599, 2807, 2827; Lk 1:50 2465; Lk 1:54-55 706; Lk 1:55 422
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Reflection:

As sometimes happens when we reflect upon the Visitation, we consider the event in broad or general terms. Mary, the vessel of Jesus, visits St. Elizabeth, the vessel of St. John the Baptist. The mothers greet each other, but only after the Lord and St. John have already communed in spirit: St. John “leaped for joy” in the presence of the Lord, communicating his own exultation to his mother.

We see the reaction in St. Elizabeth when she greets Mary, already knowing the identity of the child her cousin carries. St. Elizabeth clearly recognizes the holiness of Mary. This is remarkable when we consider that St. Elizabeth is far older than her young cousin. We were told that she was barren: “And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived  a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren,” (Luke 1:36) when Mary received the news of her own conception from the Archangel Gabriel. Yet, her cousin not only defers to her, but offers her worshipful praise: “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.”

This meeting, as we look back upon it, is much more than an encounter between faith-filled women; rather it is the Messiah, the Only Begotten Son of God, being introduced to the world represented by St. John the Baptist, and secondarily to his mother St. Elizabeth. It is for this reason we celebrate this event in solemn worship. It is, in essence, our first meeting with the Incarnation.

Our joy in this meeting is echoed by St. Elizabeth who gives us the words of the Hail Mary in her salutation. It is a reminder, not only of the Blessed Virgin’s own faith in God and acceptance of his will, but our own need to thank St. Mary for her obedience, St. Elizabeth for her understanding, and St. John for his recognition of this wondrous event.

Today we pray that our faith may be as perceptive as St. Elizabeth’s in recognizing Christ in our brothers and sisters, and that St. Mary’s unwavering obedience to God might give us courage to obey him as well.

Pax

In other years on this date: Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

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[1] The image used today is “The Visitation” by Tintoretto, 1588.
[2] S.S. Commemoratio
[3] The readings are taken from the New American Bible, with the exception of the psalm and its response which were developed by the International Committee for English in Liturgy (ICEL). This republication is not authorized by USCCB and is for private use only.

Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter

“Triumph of Christ with Angels and Cherubs”
by Bernardino Lanino, c. 1570s

 

Readings from Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter [1]

 

Readings from the Jerusalem Bible [2]

 

Readings and Commentary: [3]

Reading 1: Acts 19:1-8

While Apollos was in Corinth,
Paul traveled through the interior of the country
and down to Ephesus where he found some disciples.
He said to them,
"Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?"
They answered him,
"We have never even heard that there is a Holy Spirit."
He said, "How were you baptized?"
They replied, "With the baptism of John."
Paul then said, "John baptized with a baptism of repentance,
telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him,
that is, in Jesus."
When they heard this,
they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
And when Paul laid his hands on them,
the Holy Spirit came upon them,
and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.
Altogether there were about twelve men.

He entered the synagogue, and for three months debated boldly
with persuasive arguments about the Kingdom of God.
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Commentary on Acts 19:1-8

While Apollos stays in Corinth, strengthening the church there, Paul goes down to Ephesus. In this passage, he describes the difference between the baptism of John, which was for repentance, and the baptism of Jesus (for forgiveness). It is important to note that the gift of the Holy Spirit is given in the sacrament of baptism demonstrated here.

 CCC: Acts 19:5-6 1288; Acts 19:6 699

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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 68:2-3ab, 4-5acd, 6-7ab

R. (33a) Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.
or:
R. Alleluia.

God arises; his enemies are scattered,
and those who hate him flee before him.
As smoke is driven away, so are they driven;
as wax melts before the fire.
R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.

But the just rejoice and exult before God;
they are glad and rejoice.
Sing to God, chant praise to his name;
whose name is the LORD.
R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.

The father of orphans and the defender of widows
is God in his holy dwelling.
God gives a home to the forsaken;
he leads forth prisoners to prosperity.
R. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.
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Commentary on Ps 68:2-3ab, 4-5acd, 6-7ab

Psalm 68 gives praise and thanksgiving for God’s salvation. It is from God alone that salvation comes, replacing the losses suffered by the poor (widows and orphans) with his justice and presence.

CCC: Ps 68:6 238
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Gospel: John 16:29-33

The disciples said to Jesus,
"Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech.
Now we realize that you know everything
and that you do not need to have anyone question you.
Because of this we believe that you came from God."
Jesus answered them, "Do you believe now?
Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived
when each of you will be scattered to his own home
and you will leave me alone.
But I am not alone, because the Father is with me.
I have told you this so that you might have peace in me.
In the world you will have trouble,
but take courage, I have conquered the world."
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Commentary on Jn 16:29-33
 
Here, in St. John’s Gospel, we see the disciples already presume the hour the Lord predicted is upon them, and they are already prepared in fullness. Jesus must dissuade them from this notion. He tells them that they will fail in their faith but even in doing so he gives them great solace as he essentially forgives them in advance for deserting him when he is confronted in the garden. Even as they confess that they believe in him, Jesus knows they will flee when he is taken prisoner.

CCC: Jn 16:28 661, 2795; Jn 16:33 1808
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Reflection:

“I have told you this so that you might have peace in me.
In the world you will have trouble,
but take courage, I have conquered the world."

We have been given this interesting statement made by the Lord from the Gospel of St. John. He makes this statement almost as an afterthought. The disciples think they have finally understood Jesus. They think he is coming into his power, and that they are prepared to take up the tasks he has set before them. The Lord sees this as a two-fold danger. First, his disciples have not seen what must come for Jesus to ascend to the throne of heaven. They still believe that he will defeat the forces that conspire to kill him. When they see this apparent defeat a short time later, as Jesus predicts, they will flee to their homes, afraid, their faith tested and found wanting.

While they certainly would not want to hear this prediction, Jesus must tell them in advance so that when it happens they will understand that it is not the end of his mission, but theirs beginning.
The second danger the Lord sees is the disciples’ overconfidence in their own preparation. Jesus knows, and in fact has been trying to tell them, that they will not be ready to take on what he has asked of them until they receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. They are asked to take the Word of God, the Good News, the Gospel of Christ, into the world. How can they do this without having the counselor and guide indwelling? How can they know the mind of Christ without the Lord being in them?

All of this leads to that final verse: “I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world." They will find peace when the Holy Spirit calms their fears, and they will finally understand the resurrection. But what must the Savior mean, “I have conquered the world”?

Many other translations of Sacred Scripture say “I have overcome the world.” There is a difference using these two similar words. But, rather than focus on the intent of the translators, let us ask what was meant by the phrase. The Vatican Council said of that statement: "The Lord Jesus who said 'Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world' (John 16:33), did not by these words promise complete victory to his Church in this world. This sacred Council rejoices that the earth which has been sown with the seed of the Gospel is now bringing forth fruit in many places under the guidance of the Spirit of the Lord, who is filling the world" (Presbyterorum ordinis, 22). [4]

By the Lord’s act of preparing and sending his Word into the world, he has already overcome, indeed has conquered, the physical world, replacing the desires of mankind for what is of the world with the promise of salvation and eternal life. The world cannot withstand what it cannot touch.

Today we pray that, like those early disciples, we will not be overcome with fear when our efforts on the Lord’s behalf seem to be defeated. And we also pray that our dependence on the Holy Spirit will give us the humility and strength to accomplish the work God places before us.

By the Lord’s act of preparing and sending his Word into the world, he has already overcome, indeed has conquered, the physical world, replacing the desires of mankind for what is of the world with the promise of salvation and eternal life. The world cannot withstand what it cannot touch.

Today we pray that, like those early disciples, we will not be overcome with fear when our efforts on the Lord’s behalf seem to be defeated. And we also pray that our dependence on the Holy Spirit will give us the humility and strength to accomplish the work God places before us.

Pax

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[1] The picture today is “Triumph of Christ with Angels and Cherubs” by Bernardino Lanino, c. 1570s.
[2] S.S. Commemoratio
[3] The readings are taken from the New American Bible, with the exception of the psalm and its response which were developed by the International Committee for English in Liturgy (ICEL). This republication is not authorized by USCCB and is for private use only.
[4] The Navarre Bible, Gospels and Acts, Scepter Publishers, Princeton, NJ, © 2002, p. 672.

Seventh Sunday of Easter

When the Ascension of the Lord is Celebrated
 
Catechism Links [1]

CCC 521: through Christ we live in communion with Father
CCC 787-790, 795, 1044-1047: the Church is communion with and in Christ
 

“Polyptych of the Apocalypse”
(central panel)
by Jacobello Alberegno, 1360-90

Readings for the Seventh Sunday of Easter [2]
 
Readings from the Jerusalem Bible [3]
 
Readings and Commentary: [4]
 
Reading 1: Acts 7:55-60
 
Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit,
looked up intently to heaven and saw the glory of God
and Jesus standing at the right hand of God,
and Stephen said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened
and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
But they cried out in a loud voice,
covered their ears, and rushed upon him together.
They threw him out of the city, and began to stone him.
The witnesses laid down their cloaks
at the feet of a young man named Saul.
As they were stoning Stephen, he called out,
“Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
Then he fell to his knees and cried out in a loud voice,
“Lord, do not hold this sin against them;”
and when he said this, he fell asleep.
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Commentary on Acts 7:55-60
 
St. Stephen is martyred for proclaiming Jesus Christ risen. He is the first Christian martyr, stoned outside of Jerusalem with the consent of one of the representatives of the Sanhedrin (“The witnesses laid down their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul.”) who we know later became St. Paul.
 
We note how St. Luke draws a parallel between the martyrdom of Stephen and the death of Jesus.  Both asked the Father to forgive their persecutors in their last moments (see Luke 23:34) and both called out to God to receive their spirits (see Luke 23:46).
 
CCC: Acts 7:56 659; Acts 7:60 2635
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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97:1-2, 6-7, 9
 
R. (1a and 9a) The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.
 
The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice;
let the many islands be glad.
Justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne.
R. The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.
 
The heavens proclaim his justice,
and all peoples see his glory.
All gods are prostrate before him.
R. The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.
 
You, O LORD, are the Most High over all the earth,
exalted far above all gods.
R. The Lord is king, the most high over all the earth.
or:
R. Alleluia.
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Commentary on Ps 97:1-2, 6-7, 9
 
This song of thanksgiving rejoices in God’s rule of the earth from his heavenly throne. The images presented extol God’s supreme authority over earth and heaven. The Heavenly Father is exalted above all of man’s deified creations.
 
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Reading 2: Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20
 
I, John, heard a voice saying to me:
“Behold, I am coming soon.
I bring with me the recompense I will give to each
according to his deeds.
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last,
the beginning and the end.”
 
Blessed are they who wash their robes
so as to have the right to the tree of life
and enter the city through its gates.
 
“I, Jesus, sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches.
I am the root and offspring of David,
the bright morning star.”
 
The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.”
Let the hearer say, “Come.”
Let the one who thirsts come forward,
and the one who wants it receive the gift of life-giving water.
 
The one who gives this testimony says, “Yes, I am coming soon.”
Amen!  Come, Lord Jesus!
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Commentary on Rev 22:12-14, 16-17, 20
 
This passage (which omits v. 21 which says: “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all”) concludes the canon of the New Testament.  It is called the “Witness of Jesus,” as St. John hears the Lord’s final exhortation.  It becomes a warning to those who hear the Word of God.  “Behold I am coming soon” provides a sense of urgency to embrace the Lord of Life.  Addressed to the seven churches (see Revelation 2:1ff), this witness reaffirms the messianic role of the offspring of David, and is an invitation to eternal salvation, possible only through the God who existed before all else and will exist when all creation finally comes to an end. (“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”)
 
St. John concludes his Revelation with a prayer that the Lord may soon arrive, seeking God’s final gift of salvation.  It is noteworthy that the authors of the Missal have omitted v. 15 (“Outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the unchaste, the murderers, the idol-worshipers, and all who love and practice deceit.”) which establishes criteria for final salvation.  According to Church teaching, all are given a final opportunity to repent and be saved.
 
CCC: Rv 22:16 437, 528; Rv 22:17 524, 671, 694, 757, 796, 343, 2550, 2853; Rv 22:20 451, 671, 673, 1343, 1403, 2853
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Gospel: John 17:20-26
 
Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed saying:
“Holy Father, I pray not only for them,
but also for those who will believe in me through their word,
so that they may all be one,
as you, Father, are in me and I in you,
that they also may be in us,
that the world may believe that you sent me.
And I have given them the glory you gave me,
so that they may be one, as we are one,
I in them and you in me,
that they may be brought to perfection as one,
that the world may know that you sent me,
and that you loved them even as you loved me.
Father, they are your gift to me.
I wish that where I am they also may be with me,
that they may see my glory that you gave me,
because you loved me before the foundation of the world.
Righteous Father, the world also does not know you,
but I know you, and they know that you sent me.
I made known to them your name and I will make it known,
that the love with which you loved me
may be in them and I in them.”
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Commentary on Jn 17:20-26
 
Here is the final part of the “High Priestly Prayer” from the Lord’s final discourse. In this selection we are joined with the disciples as Jesus prays “also for those who will believe in me through their word.” Again the theme of unity between the Father, the Son, and his followers is emphasized and brought to a conclusion with: “that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.”
 
CCC: Jn 17 2604, 2746, 2758; Jn 17:21-23 260, 877; Jn 17:21 820; Jn 17:22 690; Jn 17:23-26 2750; Jn 17:24 2749, 2750, 2750; Jn 17:25 2751; Jn 17:26 589, 729, 2750
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Reflection:
 
As we enter the final week of our Easter celebration, Scripture presents us with endings.  In the reading from Acts, St. Stephen is martyred, ending the peaceful (if controversial) expansion of the faith among the Jews in Jerusalem.  From this point forward, violence against those who are following “The Way” is encouraged by the Jewish leadership.   And through that violence, the Word spreads throughout the world.
 
In the reading from Revelation, St. John concludes his vision with Christ’s own witness.  We hear the words that marked the Easter Candle when the new fire was lit: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”  The very last chapter of the very last book of the Bible issues the invitation to wash ourselves clean, and join Christ at his heavenly banquet, joining all the angels and saints in their eternal hymn of praise. Holy, Holy, Holy…
 
Finally Christ’s farewell to his disciples makes it clear that, even though he leaves us, he remains with us and in us.  As we have heard, God is love (1 John 4:8).  His love for us caused him to adopt us, and leave for us an everlasting memorial to that love in the sacrifice of the Mass.  In the holy time of Mass, we offer our love for him, and in turn, Jesus returns that love for us in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar: “that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.”
 
Of all the lessons we have learned, and of all the words we have repeated during this holy season, we must be constantly reminded of only one.  It is the one thing he commanded us and the most difficult commandment we are given: “Love God and love one another.”  It is the measure by which we measure ourselves in the world, and the measure by which we will be measured before the judgment seat of Christ.  As we complete our final week of Alleluias, let us pray that we can do so loving the Lord, and praying St. John’s own prayer: “The one who gives this testimony says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen!  Come, Lord Jesus!”
 
Pax
 

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[1] Catechism links are taken from the Homiletic Directory, Published by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, 29 June 2014.
[2] The picture is “Polyptych of the Apocalypse” (central panel) by Jacobello Alberegno, 1360-90.
[3] S.S. Commemoratio
[4] The readings are taken from the New American Bible, with the exception of the psalm and its response which were developed by the International Committee for English in Liturgy (ICEL). This republication is not authorized by USCCB and is for private use only.

The Ascension of the Lord

 

When the Seventh Sunday of Easter is celebrated
 
Catechism Links [1]
 
CCC 659-672, 697, 792, 965, 2795: the Ascension

“The Ascension of Christ”
by Garofalo (Benvenuto Tisi), 1510-20

 
Readings for The Ascension of the Lord [2]
 
Readings from the Jerusalem Bible [3]
 
Readings and Commentary: [4]
 
Reading 1: Acts 1:1-11
 
In the first book, Theophilus,
I dealt with all that Jesus did and taught
until the day he was taken up,
after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit
to the apostles whom he had chosen.
He presented himself alive to them
by many proofs after he had suffered,
appearing to them during forty days
and speaking about the kingdom of God.
While meeting with them,
he enjoined them not to depart from Jerusalem,
but to wait for “the promise of the Father
about which you have heard me speak;
for John baptized with water,
but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
 
When they had gathered together they asked him,
“Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”
He answered them, “It is not for you to know the times or seasons
that the Father has established by his own authority.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you,
and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem,
throughout Judea and Samaria,
and to the ends of the earth.”
When he had said this, as they were looking on,
he was lifted up, and a cloud took him from their sight.
While they were looking intently at the sky as he was going,
suddenly two men dressed in white garments stood beside them.
They said, “Men of Galilee,
why are you standing there looking at the sky?
This Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven
will return in the same way as you have seen him going into heaven.”
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Commentary on Acts 1:1-11
 
These are the introductory comments of St. Luke, as he begins the Acts of the Apostles. Like any well written story, he connects the events that have just taken place in his first volume, the Gospel of Luke, with what will follow.
 
Using the interval of days, Luke links the resurrection, Christ’s glorification, and his ascension with the appearance of the Holy Spirit – the paschal mystery. Christ’s departure marks the end of his direct involvement with the Apostles, except for his appearance to Paul on the road to Damascus. The passage concludes with a unique description of the actual event of Jesus being taken into heaven.
 
CCC: Acts 1:1-2 512; Acts 1:3 659; Acts 1:6-7 672; Acts 1:7 474, 673; Acts 1:8 672, 730, 735, 857, 1287; Acts 1:9 659, 697; Acts 1:10-11 333; Acts 1:11 665
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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9
 
R. (6) God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
 
All you peoples, clap your hands,
shout to God with cries of gladness,
For the LORD, the Most High, the awesome,
is the great king over all the earth.
R. God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
 
God mounts his throne amid shouts of joy;
the LORD, amid trumpet blasts.
Sing praise to God, sing praise;
sing praise to our king, sing praise.
R. God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
 
For king of all the earth is God;
sing hymns of praise.
God reigns over the nations,
God sits upon his holy throne.
R. God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.
or:
R. Alleluia.
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Commentary on Ps 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9
 
Psalm 47 is a hymn of praise celebrating God’s enthronement and kingship over the people. The imagery in the second strophe (v. 6) strongly suggests the movement of the Ark of the Covenant being processed and installed as part of this celebration. The song concludes with a proclamation of the universal claim of God – King of all the earth.
 
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Reading II: Ephesians 1:17-23
 
Brothers and sisters:
May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory,
give you a Spirit of wisdom and revelation
resulting in knowledge of him.
May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened,
that you may know what is the hope that belongs to his call,
what are the riches of glory
in his inheritance among the holy ones,
and what is the surpassing greatness of his power
for us who believe,
in accord with the exercise of his great might:
which he worked in Christ,
raising him from the dead
and seating him at his right hand in the heavens,
far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion,
and every name that is named
not only in this age but also in the one to come.
And he put all things beneath his feet
and gave him as head over all things to the church,
which is his body,
the fullness of the one who fills all things in every way.
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Commentary on Eph 1:17-23
 
The selection provided is part of St. Paul’s introductory comments to the Ephesians. His focus in this passage underlines the enlightenment flowing from the Holy Spirit. The final sentences provide an understanding of the power assumed by the Lord as he ascends to the Father.
 
The prayer for enlightenment promotes the idea that only through an understanding of God’s great sacrifice can the hope offered by the Savior be realized. The Apostle emphasizes the power and majesty of Jesus, placing his sacrifice in perspective: “he put all things beneath his feet and gave him as head over all things.” How much love was shown to God’s creation by offering up one whose state is so exalted? St. Paul’s concluding verse also introduces his concept of the Church as the living body of Christ, a theme that he developed in earlier letters to other congregations (cf. Romans 12: 4f; 1 Corinthians 12:12ff).
 
CCC: Eph 1:16-23 2632; Eph 1:18 158; Eph 1:19-22 272, 648; Eph 1:20-22 668; Eph 1:22-23 830; Eph 1:22 669, 753, 2045
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Or:  Hebrews 9:24-28; 10:19-23
 
Christ did not enter into a sanctuary made by hands,
a copy of the true one, but heaven itself,
that he might now appear before God on our behalf.
Not that he might offer himself repeatedly,
as the high priest enters each year into the sanctuary
with blood that is not his own;
if that were so, he would have had to suffer repeatedly
from the foundation of the world.
But now once for all he has appeared at the end of the ages
to take away sin by his sacrifice.
Just as it is appointed that men and women die once,
and after this the judgment, so also Christ,
offered once to take away the sins of many,
will appear a second time, not to take away sin
but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await him.
 
Therefore, brothers and sisters, since through the blood of Jesus
we have confidence of entrance into the sanctuary
by the new and living way he opened for us through the veil,
that is, his flesh,
and since we have (a great priest over the house of God, “
let us approach with a sincere heart and in absolute trust,
with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience
and our bodies washed in pure water.
Let us hold unwaveringly to our confession that gives us hope,
for he who made the promise is trustworthy.
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Commentary on Heb 9:24-28; 10:19-23
 
Supporting the Solemnity of the Ascension, this passage from Hebrews contrasts the earthly temple to the heavenly throne mounted by the Lord. We also see the contrast between the traditions of the Hebrew priests, constantly offering sacrifices of atonement, and the sacrifice of Christ, offered once and for all so that sins might be forgiven.
 
After his introductory address and blessing, St. Paul offers a prayer that the community may receive full spiritual understanding of the mystery decreed in Christ. His opening statement, “your faith in the Lord Jesus and of your love for all the holy ones,” provides a strong link between “faith” and “love.” Faith in Christ and love of each other form a cornerstone of the community, connected perpetually. The prayer for “wisdom and revelation” goes beyond a simple understanding of God’s plan to knowledge of God, himself.
 
CCC: Heb 9:24 519, 662, 2741; Heb 9:25 662; Heb 9:26 571; Heb 9:27 1013, 1021; Heb 10:19-21 1137; Heb 10:19 2778; Heb 10:23 1817
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Gospel: Lk 24:46-53
 
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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Commentary on Lk 24:46-53
 
Luke’s Gospel provides us with a shortened version of the ascension story. The emphasis in our Gospel is that what was promised has been fulfilled and now the next stage in God’s revelation is to begin. This short version is setting the stage for a more completed record of the events that follow in Acts of the Apostles (cf Acts 1:4-14)
 
"St. Matthew stresses that the Old Testament prophecies are fulfilled in Christ, because his immediate audience was Jews, who would accept this as proof that Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah. St Luke does not usually argue along these lines because he is writing for Gentiles; however, in this epilogue he does report, in a summarized way, Christ's statement to the effect that everything foretold about him had come true. By doing so he shows the unity of Old and New Testaments and that Jesus is truly the Messiah." [5]
 
CCC: Lk 24:46 627; Lk 24:47-48 730; Lk 24:47 981, 1120, 1122; Lk 24:48-49 1304; Lk 24:51 659
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Reflection:
 
As we celebrate the great Feast of the Ascension today, let’s think about how we must respond to our own conviction that Our Lord, Jesus Christ, was killed by the masters of killing – the Roman soldiers.  He was buried.  And three days later he, after releasing all our distant ancestors from the power of death (there condemned by the Original Sin of Adam and Eve), returned to say goodbye to his closest friends.  These friends testified to having met with him, spoken with him and eaten with him in this brief interval.  Having done this for our benefit, that we might believe, he returned to the Father and sits at his right hand.
 
The Feast of the Ascension marks the beginning of the end of our Easter celebration.  For the past six weeks we have rejoiced in the glow of the Easter Candle, a flame from the new fire, the Risen Christ.  That flame has another meaning, especially when it is lit for baptisms.  It represents the presence of the Holy Spirit, the gift we will celebrate next week at Pentecost. 
 
During this Easter season we have heard the Lord speak through Scripture of his departure, his return to his heavenly home.  When he first encountered Mary Magdalene, he said:
 
 “Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” (John 20:17)
 
He told his disciples that he would go to prepare a place for them, and that they could not go with him (at that time).  And today, on this Feast of the Ascension, we celebrate a promise fulfilled.  He has shown us his love and fidelity once more.
 
If we put ourselves in the place of the disciples, we can only imagine what they were experiencing as they finally understood what Jesus had been telling them.  What a roller coaster ride of emotions they were on.  First, the fear they experienced as the Lord was arrested.  Next their fear was mixed with guilt as they saw the Lord’s passion, then grief as he died upon the cross.  Then, just three days later, joy as the risen and glorified Lord came to them, giving them his peace.  There must have been an intense feeling of relief now that they had their teacher and mentor back.
 
Even though the Lord had explained things to them, they were probably not quite prepared for his ascension.  We can almost feel their thoughts: “Oh, he’s gone! What are we going to do now?”  The Lord left the answer, of course.  He left them the gift he gives us all, the guidance and peace of the Holy Spirit.
 
We don’t share their surprise.  For most of us, we know this story well.  Rather than being surprised by the Lord’s departure, we rejoice in it.  It is one more proof of his great love for us.  The Ascension is a necessary prelude to Pentecost.  How could the Lord have said he would leave us an Advocate, when he was still with us? 
 
He left to assume his place at the right hand of the Father, and he does as he promised, he intercedes for us, preparing a place in the heavenly Kingdom.
 
We have talked about how the disciples probably reacted when the Lord ascended. We should also consider how Jesus’ mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, would have reacted as well.  Like any mother, she knows her child better than anyone.  She was first to have faith in him and from the very first hour, when Jesus began to grow in her womb, she loved him.
 
Because of her faith, we think Mary would have understood the Lord’s words and actions more clearly than even his closest friends, the disciples.  She would not have been surprised when the Lord announced that he would be returning to the Father.  The Mother of Jesus and the Mother of the Church likely had a calming influence on the disciples and faithful during this time.
 
Think about how any earthly mother would react if she saw her child fulfill their destiny.  She would be proud, the first supporter of her child throughout their life.  She would have felt more keenly the pang of parting and have a deep and abiding faith that she would join him as he promised.  She is, indeed, the model for all mothers, biological or acting in that role.  It is with gratitude that we recall her strength, as we think of those whose maternal guidance we have received.
 
For our part, the Ascension is almost like the preparatory command before the start of a race.  The starter says: “On your mark.”  At Easter we are promised the great prize.  “Get set,” is the next.  That is where we are, at the Ascension.  The command, “Go,” is Pentecost when we are given the Holy Spirit and sent to take the Good News into the world.
 
If we use the analogy of a race, we know that we need to train if we are to compete.  Anyone who has done so will say the training is the hardest part.  It requires discipline and fidelity.  This is what our Vision statement prepares us to do. Our race to the place the Lord has made for us in the heavenly Kingdom is a distance race.  God willing, we will be at it for a long time and need to develop endurance, which means building spiritual muscle and stamina.  To do that we know what we must do.  We need to develop what I call the “Jesus Reflex,” that is, doing without thinking what Jesus would do.  It means that we have practiced so well that, when the time comes, we will automatically love as Jesus loved, we will be one with him in reaching out to those we meet, sharing his promise and invitation.
 
On this feast day, we give thanks to the Lord once more for going before us to prepare a place.  We pray that we can run the race he would be proud of and that he welcomes us across the finish line when our time comes.  In the meantime, we pray for the strength to be faithful and to carry out the work the Lord left for his disciples.  And we thank him for the Blessed Virgin Mary, his mother and all those who share that title today.
 
Pax

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[1] Catechism links are taken from the Homiletic Directory, Published by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, 29 June 2014.
[2] The image today is “The Ascension of Christ” by Garofalo (Benvenuto Tisi), 1510-20.
[3] S.S. Commemoratio
[4] The readings are taken from the New American Bible, with the exception of the psalm and its response which were developed by the International Committee for English in Liturgy (ICEL). This republication is not authorized by USCCB and is for private use only.
[5] The Navarre Bible, “Gospels and Acts,” Scepter Publishers, Princeton, NJ, © 2002, p. 516.