Although Jesus wanted the Twelve to rest after their successful mission of preaching and healing, the crowds of people made it challenging to do so. Who could you encourage this week to rest well from their hard work?
Today we hear about how Jesus taught the apostles to preach and heal only in places where they were welcomed. Do you recall a time or a place where you felt truly welcomed?
When Jesus taught in the synagogue of his native place, he didn’t fit the image of the Messiah the people expected. They dismissed him. Let’s learn from their example and remember that God often comes to us in forms that are surprising — even challenging.
In the Gospel today, we hear about Jesus calming the storm. "They were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?” (Mark 4:41)
In the Gospel we'll hear, "“Take it; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they all drank from it. He said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many.” (Mk 14:22-24)
In the Gospel we'll hear that Jesus’s final command to his followers is to make disciples of all nations and baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. How can we encourage others to follow Jesus?
In the Gospel reading this Sunday we hear that Jesus taught his disciples that He would send the Advocate, the Spirit of truth, to guide them and offer them divine gifts. What guidance are you currently seeking from the Lord?
Jesus’ ascension allows the Apostles to become the leaders he has formed them to be. Jesus is no longer situated in only one geographical location, and his Church will never be a political kingdom.
The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Mother of the Church and therefore the example, as well as the guide and inspiration, of everyone who, in and through the Church, seeks to be the servant of God and man and the obedient agent of the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
The cross is the great pruning of Christ’s body. Jesus’ rising is the brand-new growth. It is God’s promise to us that all the painful pruning in life is leading us somewhere beautiful.
