Word to the Wise
Sunday, May 21, 2023 -
[Acts 1:1-11; Eph 1:17-23; Matt 28:16-20]The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them and said to them, "All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age." [Matthew]
Jesus' ministry in the Gospel According to Matthew ends where it began, in Galilee. It ends on a mountain just as the Sermon on the Mount and the transfiguration took place on a mountain. The New Moses commands them to go forth and preach the gospel and to baptize. [Scripture scholars warn us not to identify this too much with the future sacramental practice!] The story of God's plan of salvation does not come to an end. A new chapter will begin with the coming of the Holy Spirit, which we will celebrate next weekend. This new chapter, in the Bible, will include St. Paul and all the missionary efforts of the disciples since Pentecost - more than 2,000 years later!
Pope Francis, in his initial letter to the church, The Joy of the Gospel, has summoned all the baptized to become "missionary disciples." The task of preaching the gospel cannot be left to "ordained clerics" alone. We Dominican friars, the Order of Preachers, challenge our lay branch to join us in the preaching task. It may not be in the pulpit but rather in the homes and streets and businesses and any location where the opportunity presents itself.
Jesus' Ascension was and is like the parent letting go of the offspring to carry on with life, assuring them of support. Our steps may be a bit unsteady at first, but the assurance of the Holy Spirit will enable us to carry out the "Great Commission." AMEN