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Yes, it’s the feast of The Ascension, yet it’s not in the gospel that we hear about this occasion. It’s in the first reading from the first chapter of the Acts of the Apostles, with the same message linked to the Gospel.
It’s hard to believe it is now 40 days since we celebrated the Easter Triduum. During these 40 days Jesus continued to spend time with his apostles: to tell them about God’s kingdom and that the Holy Spirit would come upon them and ‘you will be my witnesses, not only in Jerusalem but … to the ends of the earth.’ (Acts 1:8)
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Then, to fulfil the scripture, Jesus returns to his Father. Jesus had accomplished his Father’s mission on earth. He prepared the apostles and disciples for this moment, yet they still could not believe what was happening when Jesus ‘was lifted up while they looked on’ (Acts 1:9) and taken from their sight. Hopefully, they were consoled when told ‘Jesus will come back the same way you have seen him go’ (Acts 1:11) and that the Holy Spirit would come to comfort and strengthen them in their ministry.
While this was not an everyday occurrence, in our own life there are times when we fail to understand what’s happening. This is especially so when the unexpected occurs, such as a sudden death or health diagnosis. After the initial shock and a period of grieving (whether short or long), we come to acknowledge and allow the words from the Gospel to speak into our heart and ‘be lifted up’:
‘Know that I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.’ Matthew 28:20
Can you allow your faith to give you comfort at such times?
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These two readings provide us with: reporting of an event, giving instructions, conversation with community and loved ones and the need for action. These are also pertinent considerations for life today, especially as we work together to build a community of faith wherever we live. May the Holy Spirit inspire many to identify their giftedness and become involved in some form of ministry, just as the disciples were encouraged to do so. May we be faithful disciples as we live life knowing and believing that ‘God is with us’ (Matthew 1:23). In the words of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians we pray:
‘May God enlighten the eyes of your mind (and heart) so that you may see what hope his call holds for you’ (Ephesians 1:18).
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