A Return, Not a Retirement
Ascension of The Lord
Acts 1:1–11 / Psalm 47:6 / Ephesians 1: 17–23 or Hebrews 9:24–28; 10:19–23 / Luke 24:46–53
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Reflecting on the Word
By Rev. James A. Wallace, C.Ss.R.
In Bill Davis’ play Mass Appeal, the young deacon complains about the parish where he grew up, where the “hippy dippy hymn committee” selected “Leaving on a Jet Plane” for the feast of the Ascension. The young deacon did not find it appropriate for the dignity of the event being celebrated. To say the least, it rendered insipid what should be a feast of profound relevance.
Today’s feast continues the celebration of the paschal mystery of Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection, and return to the Father. It is not just an “after thought” feast, a bringing down of the curtain on Jesus’ life and ministry on earth. We celebrate Jesus’ return to the Father to intercede for us and to make possible the sending of the Spirit for the continuation of God’s plan of salvation for all people, now taken up by the church under the direction of this same Spirit.
Luke’s account of the Ascension places emphasis on the work yet to be done— witnessing to Jesus “to the ends of the earth.” This is further highlighted when the two men in white garments suddenly appear after Jesus is taken up and removed from their sight. “Why are you standing there looking up at the sky?” they ask. Time to get moving.
Mark’s account has Jesus sending them out to “proclaim the gospel to every creature,” and promises that great signs will accompany them. Mark’s final word affirms that “the Lord worked with them.”
Consider/Discuss
- Do you understand the feast of the Ascension only as Jesus’ returning to the Father or do you see its connection with the ongoing life and ministry of the Church?
- How does Christ continue to work with us? Are we meant to take literally Jesus’ words about being able to pick up serpents and drink deadly poison and heal the sick?
Responding to the Word
Jesus, you ascended to the right hand of the Father to intercede for us and to work with us until we are united with you in heaven. Help us to make good use of the gifts you have given for building up your body, the Church, and for making you known throughout the world.