As we near the end of our Easter season, we celebrate the Ascension of Jesus into heaven. Traditionally, Ascension was celebrated 40 days after Easter, but in many parts of the world, the solemnity has been moved to Sunday.
We’ve walked with and encountered Jesus outside the tomb, on the way to
Emmaus, on the beach, in the room where the disciples were cloistered and through doubting Thomas’ need to touch Jesus. And now it is time for Jesus to depart, to physically leave the world and return to the Father.
I’m struck by how Jesus’ departure might have affected the disciples. They may have just gotten used to the risen Jesus showing up and encouraging them and teaching them, and now he leaves, rather
abruptly, in a cloud. Were they filled with grief? Were they anxious? Were ‘what-now’, ‘what-next’ questions echoing in their minds? Did they feel lost and bereft?
Perhaps the best analogy we have in our own lives could be the experience of a significant loss. The death of a person, loss of a job or status, or misplacing a precious object can be traumatic.
As you reflect on Jesus’ Ascension, how do you feel as you watch him disappear in the cloud and be taken up into heaven?
Has there been some loss in your life? Can you name your feelings around this? Spend some time sitting on a bench with Jesus and talking to your friend.
