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WORD AMONG US WAU.ORG Reflections
Daily Meditation: Ephesians 1:17-23
May . .. . God .. .. . give you a Spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in knowledge of him. (Ephesians 1:17)
Today, on the feast of the Ascension of the Lord, we ponder Jesus’ victory over death and the grave. We lift our hearts to imagine Jesus as he “mounts his throne amid shouts of joy” and takes his seat at his Father’s right hand in glory (Psalm 47:6).And what better way to lift up our hearts than by recalling the truths proclaimed in today’s first reading!
Jesus is seated at God’s right hand “in the heavens” (Ephesians 1:20). The right hand has traditionally been a position of royal power and influence. Jesus, you rule over the universe from your throne of divine glory!
He is “far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion” (1:21). There is nothing or no one more powerful than Jesus. He is over everyone and everything. Lord, nothing surpasses you; you have the final word!
All things have been placed “beneath his feet” (1:22). Everything—even sin and death—has been subjected to him. Jesus, you have defeated every power that stands against you. And you have made us sharers in that victory!
He has been given to the Church as “head over all things” (1:22). He is the supreme authority over all believers. Jesus, you uphold, confirm, and defend your Church at all times! It’s your power that keeps us going!
He “fills all things in every way” (1:23). His presence fills every part of the universe. He is never absent from us. Jesus, you are forever present to us throughout all space and time!
What do we do with this glorious knowledge? We can imitate the disciples, who stood gazing at the heavens as they saw Jesus lifted up (Acts 1:11). And we can follow his command in today’s Gospel: “Go . . . and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
“Jesus help me to see your ascended glory. May it move me to proclaim you to the world!”
Acts 1:1-11
Psalm 47:2-3, 6-9
Matthew 28:16-20
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First Reading — Acts 1:1-11
1. What areas of your witnessing responsibilities do Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria encompass?
Second Reading — Ephesians 1:17-23
2. How do you think this prayer of St. Paul’s is accomplished in Christians’ hearts today?
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3. What is the relationship between possessing this wisdom and enlightenment and having a heart to tell
others about Jesus and salvation?
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Gospel Reading — Matthew 28:16-20
4. These were the last words the Lord spoke prior to his Ascension. Why should that fact be important to us?
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5. This command was given to the Apostles, and thus to the Church. Inasmuch as you are also part of
“Church” how should, or how are you, responding to this command?
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