SUNDAY’S GOSPEL – Matthew 28:16-20.

Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them.  When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.  And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

 

POINTERS FOR PRAYER

  1. It is time for Jesus to return to his Father. He meets his disciples for the last time. His final words give them direction for their future. Perhaps you can recall such parting moments in your own life – leaving home, school, college, training, the death of a loved one. What was that like for you? Was there an occasion when words spoken then gave you direction for your future?
  2. Perhaps you can identify with Jesus in the story, when as a parent, teacher, or in some other way you sent someone on his/her way in life knowing you would not be with him or her as in the past. When did the way you parted help the other to make his or her own way in life?
  3. Jesus told his disciples that although he would not be with them as in the past he would be with them in a new way right through their lives. Have there been times when you were reassured by the love and support of another even though s/he was not physically present with you?
  4. In parting with his disciples Jesus gave them a mission for the future. Where, when and how did you get a sense of the meaning and purpose of your own life? How does that sustain you now? Is there any way in which that purpose ties in with the mission given to the eleven to make disciples of all the nations?
  5. Matthew’s Gospel begins by introducing Jesus as “Emmanuel – God with us” and ends with the promise of Jesus to be with his disciples until the end of time. That promise is also to us. What are the things which help you to be aware of the presence of Jesus with you on life’s journey?

 

Emmanuel—God with us—we thank you that you are indeed always with us. Help us to find you and recognise where you truly are and not just where we want you to be.