Monday, May 22, 2017

Psalm for Sunday, May 28, 2017


Reflections


“God mounts His throne amid shouts of joy.”

This Sunday we celebrate the Ascension 
of our Lord, who was taken up to heaven 
to be seated at the right hand of the Father, 
far above every principality, with authority 
over every nation, as our 2nd reading
tells us (Ephesians 1: 20-21).

With such an awesome God on His throne, 
what hope do we have as mere human beings 
that He will have anything more to do with us? 
How far removed can we be if this Jesus is taken
up to heaven and has all things put beneath His 
feet (including us)?

Fortunately, for us men, Jesus leaves with us a way
to share in His divinity, through the Holy Spirit which 
He gives to us. His power and presence remain within 
us, so long as we repent from our sins and believe 
in Him.

Power is often associated with arrogance and brutal
treatment, but our God uses His power to work
miracles, and bring about healing. He is risen, and
is seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven.
Knowing this, we shout with joy, and we praise Him.

As today's Gospel tells us, after Jesus' ascension, the
disciples began their active ministry, empowered by
the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28: 16-20). That same power
is given to us so long as we believe; we too are called
to ministry. And for that we are inspired to praise
the Lord, as the psalmist says, “Clap your hands,
shout to God with joyful cries; sing praise to God!”

Amen


Discussion Questions for Reflection

1.  The Psalm speaks of God mounting His throne and reigning over
the nations.   
If God is raised up so far above us, how do you go about having a relationship 
with our Lord so that He is present to you?

2.  The Psalm's verses tell of God as the great king over all the earth,
and we are 
urged to sing praise to our king.  Describe how our Lord's ascension inspires you 
to celebrate with shouts of joy.


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