Jesus Returns

Note: In a few dioceses of the United States,  such as Boston and Philadelphia, the Ascension of the Lord is still celebrated on Thursday rather than the following Sunday. As part of the Archdiocese of Boston, we are celebrating "Ascension Thursday" today.

The Acts of the Apostles gives a detailed account of the Ascension, though some biblical scholars believe that the it is linked more directly to the Resurrection and that the appearances of Jesus during the 40 days were apparitions of the Jesus who was already at the right hand of the Father. The scene in Acts 1: 1-11 focuses on the commission of Jesus to go to teach and baptize  all nations rather than stare nostalgically at the heavens.  He promised the Holy Spirit would be their guide and that he himself would be with us for all time.  As such, 2000 years later, we have nothing to fear and should be about that "job" now. How am I living out this mandate?  What can I do to open my heart to the Spirit and allow him to work in and through me?  Why am I so often gazing toward the heavens rather than spreading the good news by my words and actions?  Jesus has returned home; his work is ours.
Bro. Rene