The Powerful Message of the Ascension of the Lord

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season : Seventh Week:  Sunday*

*Feast of the Ascension of the Lord*

*Gospel :  Mt 28: 16-20*

*First Reading : Acts : 1:1-11*

*Responsorial Psalm : 47: 2-9*

*Second Reading : 1:17-23*

*The Powerful Message of the Ascension of the Lord*

*1) Christ Did Not Abandon Humanity*

The Ascension is not Jesus “leaving” the world. Instead, it reveals that Christ’s presence becomes universal and spiritual.

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

The message is: Christ is no longer limited to one place or one group. He is present everywhere — in prayer, in the Eucharist, in Scripture, and in every act of love. The Ascension teaches us that God is near even when He seems invisible.

*2) . Humanity Is Raised to God*

One of the deepest meanings of the Ascension is that Jesus carried human nature into divine glory.

This means: Humanity is not destined for destruction. Human life has eternal dignity. Heaven is now “open” to humanity.

The Ascension tells every person: Your life has a divine destiny. It is a feast of human dignity and eternal hope.

*3) The Feast of Mission*

Before ascending, Jesus gives the disciples a mission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)

The disciples could no longer stand looking at the sky. They had to return to the world with courage.

The Ascension transforms fearful disciples into future witnesses.

The message for us: Faith is not passive. Christianity is not escape from the world. We are called to bring truth, justice, compassion, and hope into society.

*4) Relevance of the Ascension Today* 

*A) In a World of Anxiety and Uncertainty* : 

People today struggle with: fear about the future, loneliness, loss of meaning, despair.

The Ascension reminds us: history is not meaningless, evil will not have the final word, our journey has a destination in God. It gives hope beyond temporary struggles.

*B) In a Materialistic Culture*

Modern society often measures success by money, status, and power.

The Ascension redirects our vision: Life is more than possessions. Human beings are made for communion with God. Spiritual growth matters more than worldly achievement. It calls us to live with eternal values.

*C) In Times of Social Division* 

The Ascension sends believers outward in service.

A true disciple: heals divisions, serves the poor, uplifts the forgotten, becomes a witness of peace.

The feast challenges Christians not merely to “believe,” but to become living signs of Christ in the world.

*5) Points to Ponder*

*A) “Why are you standing looking up to heaven?”* : The angels asked the disciples this question (Acts 1:11).

This is deeply symbolic. Faith is not about escaping earthly responsibilities. We cannot remain frozen in nostalgia or fear. 

We must: return to daily life, continue Christ’s work, serve others with love. The Ascension is a call to action.

*B) The Presence Hidden in Absence* : Sometimes God feels distant in our lives.

The Ascension teaches spiritual maturity: We walk by faith, not by sight. God’s silence does not mean abandonment. Christ works invisibly within history and within us. This is especially meaningful during suffering or spiritual dryness.

*C) Our Hearts Must Rise* : The Ascension is also interior.

Christ ascends so that the human heart may rise: above hatred, above selfishness, above despair, above sin.

The feast asks: What is keeping my soul earthbound?

*D) Hope Is Stronger Than Death* : The final destiny of humanity is not darkness but glory.

The Ascension proclaims: suffering is temporary, love endures, eternal life is real. This gives courage to persevere through trials.

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*