Monday, May 27, 2019

Psalm for Sunday, June 2, 2019


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 second 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 us with 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.

After Jesus' Ascension, the disciples began their 
active ministry, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
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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