The Ascension of the Lord: A Promise of Power and Mission
The Final Act — and the Beginning of Ours
The Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord marks a pivotal turning point in salvation history. Forty days after the Resurrection, Jesus is taken up into heaven—not as a farewell, but as a handoff. His earthly mission, fulfilled in death and resurrection, now becomes the Church’s mission through the power of the Holy Spirit.
“You Will Be My Witnesses”
In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we see the final moments of Jesus with His disciples. He gives them one last instruction: stay in Jerusalem and wait. They are not yet ready to go out—not until they are “clothed with power from on high.” This power is the Holy Spirit, and it is only through Him that the disciples (and we) can boldly proclaim the Gospel “to the ends of the earth.”
But the Ascension is not just about waiting for power. It’s a call to mission. The disciples ask if now is the time when Jesus will restore the kingdom to Israel. But He redirects their expectations: they are not to worry about divine timing—they are to be His witnesses.
Eyes on Heaven, Feet on Earth
As Jesus ascends, the disciples are left staring upward. Two angels suddenly appear and challenge them: “Why are you standing there looking at the sky?” In other words, don’t just stand and watch—get to work. Jesus will return in glory, but until then, His Church must be active, preaching, teaching, loving, healing.
This heavenly gaze is essential, but so is earthly mission. The Ascension teaches us to live in both realities: looking toward heaven with hope, and living on earth with purpose.
Seated at the Right Hand of the Father
Saint Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is a rich theological meditation on what the Ascension means for us. Christ is not simply gone—He is exalted. He is raised above every power, principality, and dominion. All things are under His feet. And more than that, “He is head over all things to the Church, which is His body.”
We are not alone in our mission. We are empowered by the very authority of Christ. This is not human effort—it’s divine energy.
Joy in the Temple
Luke’s Gospel closes with a remarkable scene. After Jesus is taken up, the disciples do not mourn. They rejoice. Why? Because the Ascension is not an end—it is a beginning. They return to Jerusalem “with great joy” and praise God continually in the temple. Their hearts are full not of fear, but of expectation.
What the Ascension Means for Us
It assures us that Christ reigns now, not later.
It reminds us that heaven is our true home.
It commissions us to spread the Gospel, empowered by the Spirit.
It challenges us to look up in faith and live out that faith on earth.
As we celebrate this solemnity, may our eyes be lifted to heaven and our lives rooted in mission. Jesus has gone before us, but He has not left us. Through the Holy Spirit, He lives in His Church—and in us.
“You will receive power… and you will be my witnesses.” Let’s live that call with courage and joy.
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.