Let’s examine some of the themes we find in the Mass readings for the Ascension of the Lord.

1st Reading – Acts of the Apostles 1:1-11

• Jesus speaks to the apostles after his resurrection and instructs them to wait for the Holy Spirit.
• The Lord ascends into the sky, and two men dressed in white garments tell the disciples that Jesus has been taken up into heaven.

Psalm – 47:2-3,6-9

• “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy; a blare of trumpets for the Lord.”
• God reigns over all the nations as the people sing joyful praise.

2nd Reading – Ephesians 1:17-23

• We are enlightened by the surpassing power of Christ.
• All authority has been given to the Lord, who is head over all the church.

2nd Reading – Hebrews 9:24-28,10:19-23

• Christ offered his life once for all to take away sin.
• Our trust in the Lord empowers us to hope and hold fast to our confession of faith.

Gospel – Luke 24:46-53

• Speaking to the disciples, Jesus affirms how it was written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead.
• The Lord blesses the disciples and is taken up into heaven.

Mass Readings – The Ascension of the Lord (#58)

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Catholic Inspiration Archives