WEEK B - E7 MARK 16: 15—20
JESUS Ascends to Heaven Jesus said to his disciples: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” So then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs.
1.
Explore It!
Before Jesus ascends back to heaven, He gives His disciples one last instruction: spread His teachings to everyone. This is important to Jesus’ overall purpose as those who heed His teachings can be saved. With his earthly works completed, Jesus returns to the right hand of God. Though Jesus ascended to heaven, His disciples were not alone in their mission of preaching the Good News as Jesus was still with them in spirit.
2.
Connect It!
As a teacher, Jesus both teaches and shows us many lessons about the kingdom of God. As with many things learned, it is of no good to the world if the lessons were kept secret. Before returning to heaven, Jesus tells His disciples to put His teachings into action by going out to the world and telling others about the Good News in the gospel and baptizing them as heirs to God’s kingdom. As disciples of Christ, it is our responsibility to reveal the world to Jesus’ teachings.
3.
Reflect It!
As Catholics, we are fortunate to be saved through our baptism and our proclamation of the gospel. Now, as disciples of Jesus, it is our mission to proclaim the gospel and save others. Do we have to literally baptize others? No, we can proclaim the gospel through our actions and words to those around us. Thinking about that past week, how have you been disciples of Christ? Be all that Jesus taught his disciples to be. Be role models and good Christians. Help those in need. Be kind. Spread love. In all these ways, we are spreading His message and make the world a better place.
4.
Live It!
[ encouragement ]
Encouragement—the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope Jesus is humanity's greatest cheerleader in overcoming sin. He brings hope into the world. As His followers, we should take His lead and encourage others not to sin. Be the good in the life of others. You don't have to nag your friends not to sin, but rather encourage them to do good things by doing good deeds yourself as examples. This week, bring a friend to a community service event, pick up trash in your community or another deed which makes your friend feels good.
5. REMEMBER IT! “So then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God.” (Mark 16:19)
6. Pray It! Dear Jesus, You came into this world to teach us about Your kingdom and the goodness of God. Please give us the wisdom, strength, and courage to continue your work of proclaiming the good news to others. Help us build Your kingdom here on earth. Amen.
