Armodoxy for Today: Greater than One

On the fortieth day following Easter, Scripture tells us, that Jesus ascended to heaven. On that day, he commissioned the Disciples to Go and make disciples of all nations. In sending them, the Disciples become Apostles. The title describes one who is sent. But these disciples lacked the tools to do the work.

Ten days later, on the fiftieth day after Easter, Scripture continues the Christian story with the coming of the Holy Spirit and the reception of the graces of the Holy Spirit, providing the necessary tools to do the work . The day, which is called Pentecost, to denote the 50th day, in Armenian Church tradition is called Hokegasust, which literally means, the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Both the Ascension and Pentecost point to the importance of Church – the Community – for Christ, in delivering the message. Though it’s romantical to speak of having a faith in Jesus, in reality, there is no such thing as one Christian. A Christian finds expression and meaning in community. This is the Church.

The Church is built on the foundation of a proclamation that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. Jesus says, it is this foundation that “is on rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it.”  (Matthew 16)

This week we will be looking at that Church through the lens of Armenian Orthodoxy. This will be a novel look including a forgotten palm-Sunday, what happens when Jesus time has come, love and hate of self and a special parable about light and the lantern.  A very special week, from Ascension to another Palm Sunday to the Pentecost.

Today, we pray, Lord Jesus, You are not a solitary light, but the flame that kindles many. You dwell not in one heart alone, but in the communion of all who love You and exercise that LOVE. In every tongue that prays, in every hand that serves, in every heart that forgives, You are made visible. Teach us to see Your face in the faces of those we do not yet understand. Let our differences become the colors of one living tapestry — woven by Your Spirit, held together by Your grace. May Your Church, in all its forms and voices, be the place where heaven touches earth, where the Word becomes flesh again in the fellowship of Your people. For in community, You are manifest; in love, You are revealed; in unity, You are glorified. Amen.