Some Thoughts on the Ascension

On Thursday we remembered the Jesus’s Ascension. The timing is based entirely on the Book of Acts. The Ascension is sometimes described as the risen Jesus ascending to be with the Father, leaving us to carry on the work of God in the Spirit. We become Jesus’ hands and feet.

The Ascension can also be seen as the completion of the Incarnation. In Jesus the Eternal Word of God came among us in a particular time and place. The Ascension describes Christ’s transition from this time and place into God’s presence, which is everywhere and eternal. Rather than being absent, the Ascended Christ is now available to all people at all times. This is the "good news": he remains with us as he continues his work. 

In our gospel reading we hear Jesus final prayer before the arrest and crucifixion – but with his terrified disciples present and listening. This final prayer is for them and for all future disciples, including us. This final prayer reveals Jesus’ trust in God’s care for his followers. He calls us to be "glorified"—to make the presence of God visible, to be the ongoing embodiment of God’s love living God’s hope and dream. We don't do this alone; we are empowered by the Holy Spirit. 

Key Reflection for Our Community: How are we making God’s love visible today? What does it truly mean for us to live as a community entrusted to God’s care?


 

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