SUNDAY

Once again we hear the words that signify what we might rephrase as "mission accomplish":  "Father, the hour has come." (John 17: 1-11a)  Again it would not be a loss to reread these 11 verses.  Remember it is Jesus' final words to the world but especially to those who bear the name "Christian."  Recall this thought from a recent blog:  the "world" is where the powers of evil struggle, especially through the modern weapon of "addiction" to separate Christians from their namesake.  In this farewell Jesus is brutally honest and leaves no doubt:  "I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours.

For a few moments, visualize yourself standing near enough to Jesus that you can talk with him.  Surely were he actually to appear before you, there could be no doubt that you would not tell him about a spoken sentence or two or an action he performed.  Do that today and especially next Sunday when we celebrate the Ascension in our churches.  Even on Thursday, the 40th day after Easter, the actual time frame day when Jesus returned to his Father, would it hurt to take a moment or two to stand there before him again?  For one reason or another, known or unknown, that sentence or phrase captured your heart.  It obviously has meaning for you.  Why?

Likewise, as you read these words, did you notice that Jesus does not speak sadly about his impending Ascension.  I suggest that his words hint at his joy in returning to the Father and, of course, the Holy Spirit.  This little exercise may well make the official celebration of the feast next Sunday more meaningful for you.

This weekend we celebrate a few days when we recall the sacrifices so many men and women have made for their "fellow Americans" over the years.  Tomorrow, Monday, especially, set aside a time when you will go before the Lord to pray words of gratitude from your heart to your God.  In prayer lift up to God every man or woman who ever donned the uniform of a branch of the USA Armed Forces.  Pray for those who departed our shores and as well as for their families and friends  -- the men and women who never returned alive to the land that they loved so strongly.