Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter

Today's Mass Readings

In some places today is the feast of the Ascension. Today's reflection, however, is based on the readings for the Thursday of the Sixth week of Easter. The psalm response for today is “The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power” (Ps. 98:2b). This theme emerges in the two readings for the day. The first reading continues the adventure story of the early church, which we have been following throughout this entire Easter season. Today’s passage shares the story of Paul in Corinth, residing with Priscilla and Aquila, who share his trade in tentmaking. While this is Paul’s occupation in Corinth, his more important work is to share the gospel message with Jews and Gentiles alike. Today’s passage ends with a note on Paul’s success: a synagogue official name Crispus came to believe in Jesus, as did many Corinthians who were baptized. The stories of Acts do not always end so tidily, which should make us appreciate this story all the more! Moreover, this story brings out theme of God’s saving power with its emphasis on baptism. Throughout Acts in many different geographical locations, baptism emerges as an important sign of conversion and belief in the Gospel – the beginning of salvation! Notably, baptism often involves an entire household (presumably children, servants, etc.). Today we hear that Crispus’ entire household was converted.

The gospel passage from John also speaks to the saving power of God, as Jesus tells them that they will not see him, and then they will see him again. This is a foretelling of his death and resurrection. His death will cause his followers to grieve and to mourn, and his resurrection, which will cause them to rejoice. In Jesus’ resurrection, we see the saving power of God. It is in our baptism that we share in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. This season of Easter has been a time of rejoicing in Christ’s resurrection and rejoicing in the saving power of God in baptism.The passage from John could also have a Eucharistic interpretation… Jesus has been seen again in his resurrection appearances, but then he ascends to heaven, no longer to be seen in bodily form. However, he does continue to be seen on earth in the Eucharist. When Jesus ascends, it is not the end of his presence on earth, but that his presence takes different forms, most especially in the Eucharist. Here we have further indication of the Lord’s saving power as our salvation continues.

In this penultimate week of Easter, let us look in our lives for the saving power of God, remembering especially the value of baptism and the Eucharist. This saving power of the gospel message is our comfort in the discomforts of this life and our inspiration to live better lives. Today, both rejoice in Christ’s resurrection and spend some time praying that the entire Church may grow in holiness through God’s saving power.

- Maria Morrow