Promissum | Promise

"And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high." – Luke 24:49

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Jesus was very much concerned about his disciples. Jesus knew that after completing his earthly mission he had to go to heaven to be with his Father. He did not want his disciples to be left alone. He is promising them the Holy Spirit. The power from on high will strengthen them. 

Jesus is asking his disciples to stay back in Jerusalem city until they receive the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew that once they receive the Holy Spirit then nothing can separate them from the love of God. It is the Holy Spirit who will strengthen the disciples to carry on the mission of Christ on Earth.

We read in the Acts of the Apostles in 1: 14 – "All these were constantly devoting themselves to prayer, together with certain women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, as well as his brothers." From this we come to know that the disciples literally obeyed what Jesus commanded them to stay back in Jerusalem. 

Jesus is always faithful in his promises. When disciples remained faithful they also received the promise. Let us also try to remain faithful to Jesus as his disciples so that we too may be made worthy of his promises.

Reflection on Luke 24: 36-53 by Fr. George Joseph SVD

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