Jesus was Taken up to Heaven

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Seventh Week :  Sunday*

*Ascension of the Lord*

*Gospel : Lk 24:46-53*

*First Reading : Acts 1:1-11*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9*

*Second Reading : Eph 1:17-23 or Heb 9:24-28; 10:19-23*

*Jesus was Taken up to Heaven*

*1) Fulfillment of Christ’s Mission on Earth*

The Ascension marks the completion of Jesus' earthly mission. 

He had accomplished the work of redemption—his Passion, Death, and Resurrection—and now returns to the Father in glory. 

His return to heaven validates everything He taught and did. It confirms His divine identity and the truth of the Gospel.

*2) Jesus Exalted and Enthroned*

“He was lifted up before their eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.” (Acts 1:9)

The cloud is symbolic of God's presence (cf. Exodus 13:21, Luke 9:34–35). 

Jesus is not just disappearing; He is being enthroned. 

The Ascension signifies His glorification and enthronement as King, seated at the right hand of the Father (Psalm 110:1).

He now intercedes for us as our great High Priest (Hebrews 7:25)

*3) A Call to Mission*

The angel’s question to the apostles is a subtle rebuke and a powerful call: instead of being fixated on the sky, the disciples must now go out and bear witness. 

The Ascension inaugurates the age of the Church.

Jesus’ physical departure prepares the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8), empowering the disciples to evangelize the world.

*4)  Our Future in Heaven*

“Where I am, you also may be.” (John 14:3)

Jesus’ ascension is not only about His glorification but also our destiny. 

He goes to prepare a place for us. His return to heaven is a promise of our own future resurrection and eternal life with God. 

The Ascension reminds us that earth is not our final home—our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20).

*5) Jesus is Always Present, Though Invisible*

“I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

Though Jesus has ascended, He is not absent.

His presence continues in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, in the Word, in the Church, and in the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

The Ascension invites us to live by faith, trusting in the invisible yet real presence of the Risen Lord.

*6) Ongoing Intercession*

Hebrews 7:25 tells us that Jesus now intercedes for us:

“He always lives to intercede for them.”

His Ascension doesn’t mean absence—it signifies a new, deeper mode of presence. 

From heaven, He continues His priestly role for us.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*