The Ascension of the Lord

Readings:

Acts 1: 1-11
Ephesians 1: 17-23
Matthew 28: 16-20

Reflection:

Jesus’ Ascension into Heaven is a defining moment in the life and mission of the Church. It marks the culmination of His earthly ministry and the beginning of His heavenly reign.

For us it affirms His divinity and lordship; it highlights His continued presence through the Holy Spirit who guides and empowers the Church; and it underscores our responsibility to actively participate in Matthew’s Great Commission: the sharing of the message of salvation and living as disciples of Christ.

However, beyond these foundational and constitutional premises, the end of Jesus’ life on Earth has a much more personal impact. For me, here is a father figure who is saying to his children, “Well, here it is: this is what I’ve done and here is what I’ve taught you. I’ll continue to provide you with love, support and guidance, but it’s now up to you.”

In urging us to lead a life as He has shown, Jesus is placing His trust and His confidence in us. He will continue to be there for us, but it’s our choice and our free will as to how we take up his call to love Him and to love our neighbour.

This is the parent steering His children out into the mainstream and maelstrom of the future, trusting us to make our own way, being there for us, but letting us navigate the channel whilst always being guided by the lighthouse of His love. A covenant of mutual love – a covenant each of us intrinsically understands.

Through His death and resurrection, Jesus shows us that His love transcends death and sets the path towards the light of eternal life.

It is a journey that we can share – if we choose to.

Phil Page  is a member of the St Joseph’s Hobart Parish