FROM THE Second Reading in Ephesians we read a summary of Jesus' ministry and the prayer to the Holy Spirit for grace: “Brothers and sisters: May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, give you a Spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in knowledge of him.
May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened, that you may know what is the hope that belongs to his call, what are the riches of glory in his inheritance among the holy ones, and what is the surpassing greatness of his power for us who believe, in accord with the exercise of his great might: which he worked in Christ, raising him from the dead and seating him at his right hand in the heavens, far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion, and every name that is named not only in this age but also in the one to come.”Our twin grandsons - Tres and Quatro - celebrated their anticipatory birthdays in Zamboanga City. They had the most beautiful Pizza and Burger Cake ordered ready by Wella. They announced their moving-up to grade 5. Since they loved to ask questions as is their curious nature. Tres wondered: Lola what will happen to you, when you won’t have a job? What will happen to Ate Garnette?” How sweet and caring these words of concern from the little ones.
Lolo informed me ahead of their “serious” talk about life. We ended with Tres praying to the Holy Spirit for wisdom imploring God to give Lola a good job and a good life!” Amen.
The Lord's Ascension and departure leaves a tinge of sadness. That is why the previous readings were Jesus' assurance of His help and presence through the Holy Spirit. I came from (Barangay) Patalon and offered prayers and gratitude to a dear friend of TP and mine - Kagawad Aripin Arasani. He died due to heart failure. He was a friend till the end who offered his home to feed and welcome my husband. His constant presence and support are memories we value. He was in pain due to our loss. I hugged his wife and daughter and offered condolences to his son. I thank him for all his friendship and commend him to God.
As Jesus ascended, we find hope that the Holy
Spirit, who we welcome in our life even among children like Tres and Quatro,
will lead us to the Father. We look at the friendship of a dear brother Kagawad
Aripin. Amidst the pain and heartache, we commend him to God with eternal joy.
May we look to life with faith, with hope and love toward Jesus who brings new
life. (MBC)
