Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord

Encounter the Whole World

THEY WENT FORTH AND PREACHED EVERYWHERE.

Jesus, just as you gathered your first disciples and sent them on mission, you have gathered us to also be sent. Like them, we have our doubts and feel inadequate. Help us move our gaze from the clouds to the road where your mission awaits us.

Share a time when you overcame your fear to deal with a conflictual situation.

Maryknoll Sister Fulani, who served in mission in Tanzania, writes we are witnesses not only to Christ’s Ascension but also God’s ongoing presence. “As missioners, we are often met with great curiosity when we go to a new place. How natural that is! After all, we look different, we speak differently, we probably live somewhat differently, we might act differently and even strangely in the eyes of the people to whom we’re sent. So what is the witness that we show? How do we live so that we can prove that God is alive? I was in mission for many years in Tanzania, almost all of them as an educator. During those years I was a subject teacher in many different schools and situations, a founder of a school, an administrator, a director, a supporter.” (Maryknoll Magazine May 2022)

Jesus said to his disciples: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” So then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs. Mk 16:15-20

Leaving our comfort zone is scary and we may encounter demons, serpents and toxic situations. When Jesus passed on the mission to the disciples he promised them that they would be able to do the same amazing things that he had done. As communities of missionary disciples we carry on that movement empowered by the love of God that can heal a broken world.

What amazing signs have you seen in your faith community that inspires you and your community to continue the mission; and where is the Spirit directing you next?

Synodality encourages us to listen to others without confrontation. Let’s meet people where they are and go with them on their journey. Try walking therapy, where you talk about fears and hopes while walking outdoors. This week, invite someone you don’t know well for a nature walk. Talk about the things around you that give you hope for the world. Let’s connect and share the Good News! Learn more about synodality from Fr. Joe Healey, MM.

Holy Spirit, help us better appreciate the diversity of gifts that you have given our community. Help us better appreciate that when we walk together in mission amazing things will happen.