Scripture:
Acts 22:30; 23:6-11
John 17:20-26
Reflection:
Severe weather and tornado season started early this year in the Midwest and the South. I was awed and dumbstruck to see one hit close to home in Nebraska, not just one but three or four in the immediate area. Soon after such disasters, news reports appear about clean-up and relief. Communities come together for the reconstruction effort.
Dear friends, on Sunday, most of our dioceses across the United States celebrated the Solemnity of the Ascension. In continuity with the farewell discourses in John, Paul’s letter to the Ephesians intimates the idea of unity in the number one: one body and one Spirit, one hope of one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.
Natural disasters cause chaos and destruction in the wreckage left behind. However, disasters can unite communities, urging others to care for their neighbors and help rebuild communities. The disciples, soon, will have a disaster leveled upon their heads. Their great master and teacher will be taken away from them. In their great fear and anxiety. Jesus will continue to be present to them in the moment, reminding them of all that He has taught them. What great bonds of love exist between the Father and Son, now proceeding to the disciples!
Help us, Lord, to see in our lives opportunities to build and strengthen the bonds of love and unity between God and humankind.
Fr. Phillip Donlan, CP, is the Associate Director of Ministry at Christ the King Passionist Retreat Center, Citrus Heights, California.