Preparatory Prayer!

This weekend is quite unique, especially if you are in an area where the Solemnity of the Ascension has been transferred from Thursday to Sunday. Ascension Thursday or Sunday will be celebrated next week. So, if your area celebrates the Ascension on Sunday, then there is no Seventh Sunday of Easter. However, the second reading and gospel for that Sunday can be used this weekend, the Sixth Sunday of Easter. Sounds confusing, but after some time has passed, we eventually get into a pattern. The gospel for the Seventh Sunday of Easter is Jesus' prayer for the apostles as he prepares to ascend back to the Father. Prayer is a beautiful gift and one that we need to use as much as we can. Keep those communication lines with God open at all times. Jesus is a wonderful example on how to use the gift of prayer. He said to the apostles that I will be with you until the end of the age. Our Lord is not only present with us, but he is praying for us as well. One commentator writes this, "The Easter promise remains the source of our joy: Christ has triumphed over death; Christ dwells in our midst; Christ will return in glory to make all things new in the fullness of the Holy Spirit" (Magnificat, 400). That is our faith, our hope. Just as the Lord returned to the Father so he will return to take us with him because he goes to prepare a place for us. Do not be afraid! We are not alone! The risen Lord is right by us with a guiding hand and a prayer that the Father will keep us close and strong as we live out the mission entrusted to us! Have a blessed weekend!!!