7TH SUNDAY OF EASTER 17TH MAY 2026

The reading captures a very human moment of uncertainty and waiting after the Ascension of Jesus. Jesus leaves his disciples and tells them simply to return to the city and wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Unlike the prophet Elijah, who left his cloak to Elisha as a visible sign of guidance and continuity, Jesus leaves no physical sign behind. The disciples are left confused and uncertain, wondering how they are supposed to continue the mission of spreading the Good News.

Even though the Gospels, especially Matthew’s Gospel, call them to proclaim Christ’s message to all nations, they are not yet given clear practical direction. This reflects experiences many people face in life moments when they genuinely seek God’s will but cannot clearly see the next step. During such times, believers are invited to wait with patience and trust that God’s Spirit will guide them in the right direction, often through the support and companionship of others who are also searching and waiting.

The second reading, from the First Letter of Peter, reminds Christians that sharing in Christ’s glory also means sharing in his suffering. Glory cannot be separated from love, sacrifice, and perseverance through hardship. To follow Christ fully is to walk the same path he walked, trusting that suffering can lead to a deeper relationship with him.

Finally, the Gospel passage from Jesus’ words at the Last Supper brings together the heart of his mission and his relationship with the Father. Much like the themes found in the “Our Father,” the passage highlights Jesus’ complete obedience to the Father’s will and the deep unity between them. A central theme is the glorification of Christ after the Resurrection and Ascension. For the early Christians, the focus was not only on the empty tomb, but on the risen Christ now sharing fully in God’s divine glory.

The letters of Paul describe Christ as exalted above all creation and worthy of worship, yet this glory ultimately points back to the Father. In this way, the Ascension is presented not simply as Jesus leaving the earth, but as the fulfilment of his earthly mission and the beginning of his eternal glory.

                        Fr Jerome Otitoyomi DUKIYA