So then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God.
(John 16:19)
You are still with us, my Jesus, though we long to see you as your disciples did. You did not leave them without direction, but with the promise of your continuing help. Just as you breathed the Spirit of life into Adam and Eve, you will send that same Spirit to renew us whom you have redeemed. You will lavish your gifts on us and make us disciples. With your strength, we will burst the chains of sin and weakness and draw us into your freeing truth. Let us pray fervently during these nine days that we may be open to you. Thy will be done.