We celebrate the feast of the Ascension of our Lord. Forty days after Easter, the risen Christ, in sight of his apostles, ascended bodily into heaven (Acts 1:9-11). Jesus’ ascension marks the completion of his earthly mission, and he takes up his position at the right hand of the Father, where he intercedes for us.
Jesus prepared us for his departure from this world. He tells his disciples and us that he will not leave us desolate, he will come to us. Jesus assures us that his leaving is not an abandonment, but rather a change and preparation for a new form of presence through the Holy Spirit, which we will receive at Pentecost.
Jesus’ promise to be with us also points to our hope of eternal life, as he
explains that he will prepare a place for us and return to bring us to himself. He tells us that where he is going, we will also go when the time is right, and this encourages us to prepare for this time when we take up our place in heaven.
Jesus saying that he will not leave us orphans fills us with hope. Jesus knew that, like the disciples, we would be anxious about being left alone and abandoned (John 14:1). The
Lord invites us to entrust our future to him; he assures us that his leaving is not a disaster.
Can I remember the promises of the Lord?
How might I remain hopeful in these promises?
How am I being invited to prepare to receive what the Lord promises?
Spend some
time in prayer and reflection.
