Ascension of the Lord • Christians believe that Christ is our Savior. He healed the sick, spoke comfort to the downtrodden, looked with compassion on those in need, forgave sinners, and even raised the dead. And now, at this moment when it seems He could have taken over the world -- He ascended into heaven and left us. Where did he go?

[I pick three random Christians out of their pews and make them stand]

He is present in every single Christian! We are meant to be His presence in the world: to speak comfort to the downtrodden, look with compassion on those in need, help sinners find compassion, comfort the sick, and suffer with joy and dignity. Can you love as Jesus loved? Fortunately, He did not leave us without help. He gave us the Eucharist, the other six sacraments, the Church community, and the Holy Spirit. If we cannot say that Christ is present at our work, in our home, or in our lives, that is our fault. If we receive His help and truly live our mission, the whole world will be able to say: Christ is Risen! He is truly Risen! (5 Jun 2011)