Wednesday of Seventh week after Easter, May 23, 2007

Scripture: Acts 20:28-38. Psalm 68. John 17:11-19. Lectionary # 299

One of the most touching scenes in the Acts of the Apostles is our reading
for today. Paul is leaving Ephesus and those who surround him feel the
pain of never seeing him again. He has worked hard among them teaching and
preaching the Paschal Mysteries. Now he is about to enter into these
mysteries of suffering and death as he heads for Jerusalem and then is sent
on to Rome as a prisoner. Let us return to the departing event of Paul
leaving Ephesus. Luke narrates: "There was much weeping among them all;
they embraced Paul and kissed him, grieving especially because of what he
had said that they would not see him again. Then they brought him to the
ship." (Acts 20:38). The Gospel likewise is about Jesus' parting words.
We are nearing the end of his long discourse at the Last Supper to his
beloved apostles and friends. His words are meant to strengthen them with
the promise of the Holy Spirit and with his enduring love. Those who have
been with him from the beginning of his active ministry will soon
experience the loss of Jesus, but he tells them he will not leave them
orphans for the Advocate, the Spirit will be sent. They will continue his
mission and even do such great deeds as he has done. These two scenes from
the Acts and John's Gospel are profound moments for reflection and prayer.
"Lord, we are strengthened by these powerful examples of Paul and Jesus as
they depart from their loved ones. We pray that you send upon us the gift
of the Holy Spirit so that we may continue your work with the boldness of
Paul and with your own serenity and love. We desire to share the Gospel of
love with one another and with those whom we meet both in our words and our
actions which often speak louder than words. Do not let us be discouraged
or overwhelmed with those who do not want to know about you or who openly
are unfriendly to us and for what we stand. Help us to keep going on with
unselfish love for them. We know that you and the Spirit are always with us
and that we are not orphans. You are the way, the truth and the life. You
are the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Amen."