Today look at the photo ... it was taken yesterday morning in Raleigh, NC ... in a hotel garden. The droplets reminded me that there was a heavy coating of humidity in the air during the hours from sunset until sunrise. There was no rain. Just heavy dew. A reminder that even though unseen moisture was present, present enough to create dew drops on the small plants in the garden.
This photo might suggest how we think about Jesus after his Ascensions into heaven. His work of redemption was completed, he made appearances to his close associates and colleagues for a 40 day period after his resurrection from the tomb. Now, we celebrate today his Ascension. His physical presence among us is finished. However, we are not abandoned. His presence continues among us, like the droplets on the greenery. So, there is no reason for us to ever express doubts that he is not with us each day through all of the pains and disappointments, through all the joys and great moments of our lives. "How so?" some might ask.
First and foremost do not forget the experience that occurs in almost every church on a daily basis: "This is my body. This is my blood." At the altars around the world every day, "I am with you always." In every church or chapel where there is a tabernacle, where the Blessed Sacrament is present, "I am with you always." This is not enough? Then consider this: the special gifts that Jesus entrusted to his Church as supports to us along our faith journey: the Seven Sacraments. Just for a moment think about each of these sacraments and how some of them have impacted your lives to date.
Last week there were several postings that focused attention on the soul. One clear avenue to the soul is understanding our hearts. Jesus is not only with us he is within us. His gift of himself is a gift that exceeds any gift we may have received. My brothers and sisters, if you find yourselves wondering at times, "Where is Jesus when I need him?" take some time to sit quietly in his presence, enter the tabernacle of your heart where you are invited to open yourself to his voice, his messages to you.
