Today’s Catholic Reflection
In the first reading from Acts, we hear days after Jesus rose from the dead. He appears to his apostles for forty days and tells them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit. When they ask about restoring Israel, Jesus says that the timing is not for them to know. He assures them that they will receive power from the Holy Spirit to be his witnesses. After this, he ascends into heaven, and two men in white remind the apostles that he will return.
The second reading from Ephesians shares a prayer for wisdom and revelation. This prayer asks that believers may grasp the hope and power available through Christ. It speaks of Christ's authority, seated at God's right hand, above all powers and dominions. In the Gospel from Matthew, we find the Great Commission. Jesus instructs his disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them his commands. He promises to be with them until the end of time.