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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Three Great Things 