Wednesday 19 May 2021
Acts 20:28-38. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth – Psalm 67(68):29-30, 33-36. John 17:11-19.
When sent by the Lord we become sanctified in the truth
‘I commend you to God, and to the message of his grace.’ In these words the Acts of the Apostles records some of the final words of St Paul to his friends before his departure by boat for Rome and, ultimately, execution. They embraced him, and kissed him, awash with tears all around. At this time of the liturgical calendar, just after the Ascension, our readings recall not the departure of Jesus, but the emotional departure of Paul. Years ago my bishop sent me to Rome for four years to complete my studies, and I will never forget the tearful departure from Port Melbourne with family and friends lining the dock and clinging to streamers. But my leaving led to more life. As Jesus prays in today’s Gospel, ‘As you sent me into the world, Father, so I send them into the world.’ When sent by the Lord we become sanctified in the truth.
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