Here are some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the Ascension of the Lord.

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

• Beginning where the Gospel of Luke ended, Acts describes how Jesus was present to the disciples for forty days after his resurrection.
• Promising the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus commands the disciples to be his witnesses to the ends of the earth as he is lifted up into heaven.

Psalm – 47:2-3,6-9

• “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.”
• The people rejoice and sing as God rules over all the nations from his throne in heaven.

2nd Reading – Ephesians 1:17-23

• We seek the Spirit of wisdom and enlightenment to understand all that God has revealed through Jesus Christ.
• From the time of his earthly ministry, through his death, resurrection and ascension, all power has been given to Christ over all of creation.

2nd Reading – Ephesians 4:1-13 (2nd Option)

• We are urged to live with humility, gentleness, patience, peace, and love as we strive to unite in one body and one Spirit
• There are many different gifts and callings, and all are necessary to work together to build up the body of Christ.

Gospel – Mark 16:15-20

• The risen Lord commands his disciples to go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature, and they will be accompanied by many signs of power.
• The Lord then ascends into heaven as the disciples go forth and carry out their commission.

Mass Readings – Ascension of the Lord (Year B, #58)

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