For the seven weeks of Easter, we have been hearing of the Apostles miraculous deeds. Today, on the feast of Pentecost, we see that their success was due to the Holy Spirit coming upon them “with power” (Acts 1:8). Ironically, with today’s account, the readings at mass cease their mention of the Apostles’ mission. Why is that? On the original day of Pentecost, the Apostles went forth in power; on today’s celebration, we are invited to go forth. The liturgical year has renewed us for mission as the presence of Christ in the world. Thus, we have beheld the coming of God’s Only Son (Christmas), been formed by his teaching (first part of Ordinary Time), shared in his burdens (Lent), witnessed his death and Resurrection (Triduum), and prayed to receive his promised Holy Spirit. Today’s feast is an opportunity for us to recommit ourselves, as Jesus’ disciples, to imitating him in all he said and did. As we enter Ordinary Time tomorrow, we might plot a strategy for ourselves to keep our mission on track. How often, for example, and in what ways, can I pray that I might maintain my zeal for following Christ? What should I read in order to keep myself growing in wisdom? How can I make the best use of my “time, talent, and treasure” for the building up the Church and for ministering to those in need? If I act boldly on God’s Word, I can expect him to do great things for me in the coming months!