Friends, on this seventh Sunday of Easter, we are celebrating the solemnity of Ascension. It is an important solemnity that marks the return of Jesus to the Father. Ascension is a solemnity that sustains the hope of Christians that, one day, we shall be where Christ is. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “Jesus Christ the head of the Church precedes us into His Father’s glorious kingdom, so that we the members of his body may live in the hope of one day being with him forever” (665-667). The readings of today, highlight the steadfastness or faith of Stephen, the prayer of Jesus for unity among believers, and the invitation to eternal life. Lord Jesus, help us stand firm in our faith like Stephen. Unite us as one family in Your love. Guide us to share the invitation to eternal life with everyone we meet in this life.
Friends, the story of Stephen from the first reading of today is powerful. Stephen is full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Even when facing death, he does not waver. He remains firm in his belief in Jesus. Stephen sees a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God. This vision gives him courage and strength. He forgives those who are stoning him, just like Jesus did on the cross. Stephen’s faith and forgiveness are examples for us. We can learn from Stephen to stand firm in our faith, even when it is hard. Sometimes, we may face challenges or people who do not understand our faith. Like Stephen, we can trust in Jesus and find strength in Him.
Friends, the second reading talks about Jesus offering the water of life freely. This invitation is open to everyone. It shows God’s desire for all people to have eternal life. The Spirit and the bride invite everyone to come and receive this gift. This means God’s grace is available to all, without exception. Jesus wants everyone to join Him and experience the joy of eternal life. Brothers and sisters, we can accept this invitation by following Jesus and living according to His teachings. Sharing the good news with others and inviting them to know Jesus is also important. We must obey Christ and allow his Spirit to fill us and open the eyes of our minds as Paul prayed for us today in our second reading; “May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened.”
Friends, in the Gospel, Jesus prays for all believers to be united. He prays that we may be one just as He and the Father are one. This prayer shows how important unity is to Jesus. Jesus wants us to love one another and work together. Unity among believers helps us show the world that we belong to Jesus. When we are united, we reflect God’s love and build a stronger community. Brothers and sisters, we can work towards unity by supporting and caring for each other. Praying together, helping those in need, and showing kindness are ways to build unity. Jesus’ prayer reminds us that we are one family in Christ and should strive to live in harmony. The readings of today, help us understand the importance of standing firm in our faith, accepting the invitation to eternal life, and striving for unity. By following these teachings, we grow closer to Jesus and share His love with others. The Lord be with you …. May the Almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Have a blessed Sunday and a fruitful new week to you.
