Two Angels in White Raiment Appear

Angels are our helpers. They do the bidding of God. They are known messengers. So why did two Angels appear in white raiment? And what news did they have for those who stood around them? This extraordinary occurrence is something that we must pay attention to. The message is clear, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand Ye gazing up into heaven?" The men were looking up as witnesses, an end of what was a victorious mission. Jesus, on Mt. Olives, Ascended into heaven, to sit at the right Hand of God, leaving a very important revelation to His followers. He promised to send the Holy Spirit, along with His commandment to "Go forth and proclaim His name to all nations." They were instructed to stay in Jerusalem, the place where the Holy Spirit came upon them. The two angels revealed that Jesus will come again "in like manner as you have seen Him go into Heaven." Today, we are like the disciples, given power by the Holy Spirit, and on a mission. A mission to the world telling them that Jesus did indeed die and has indeed risen from the dead. He also ascended into heaven, and is coming back, in the flesh, to judge the living and the dead. What this says about our humanness is important, as we are created in His image and Likeness. Do we appreciate our gift of life? How do we treat others? Do you stand up for life, the right of life from conception to natural death? It is time for all to understand that there is a greater accountability, and He is watching. Today, we celebrate the Ascension and the good news at the departure of Jesus, who in giving instructions said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen (Matthew 28:19-20). (taken from St. Michael Orthodox Daily Readings --The Ascension of the Lord, May 23, 2012)