In the opening chapter of Acts today, there is a synopsis to Theophilus about how Jesus was taken up to heaven and how two men in white appeared suddenly, asking why the apostles were standing there, looking up to heaven.  What do we do when the inexplicable happens? How do we stand in Mystery?

These past few months I too perhaps have kept my eyes heavenward. Since the news of a large tumour in my liver at the end of 2014, I have leaned heavily on Christ. He has not been gone from my side. The Risen and Ascended One has been a constant presence in a myriad of forms. Around me, anxiety has filled some family and friends but most had a sense that all would be very well. On this side of surgery, I still am looking up and marvelling at Mystery: an apparently successful surgery, the provision of all my needs, a remarkable recovery that brings me each day a little closer to wholeness again, and an inner calmness that prevails most of the time.

It does not mean I do not have my moments of being overwhelmed. I have several friends with cancer right now and we are all in wait mode. Each of us is on a difficult journey of treatment and healing. Today’s Gospel shows Jesus telling his Apostles before he ascends that laying hands upon the sick will heal them. A multitude of hands from across the globe have been placed on me and kind, devoted folks continue to raise prayers for a complete healing. I envision each of us who wait as whole and healed. The Great Physician has this. This is  my attitude as I wait. I am grateful for all that has happened thus far in my recovery. Stand looking upwards with me and proclaim the Good News to all. Why?  We want to keep our eyes on Christ and hold on to the One who has gone before us  and knows the plans for each one of us. Stand with me in joy and hope.

Peace,

Suzanne