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Ascending to New Heights: Embracing the Call of the Ascension

Bible Passage: Acts 1:1–11, Eph 1:15–23, Luke 24:46–53

Summary: The Ascension of the Lord marks a pivotal moment in salvation history, revealing our call to a transformed life that transcends earthly limitations and invites us to a deeper understanding of our relationship with Christ and the cosmos.

Application: These readings urge us to reflect on how the Ascension calls us to live in the light of Christ's victory. As we contemplate our daily actions and decisions, we are reminded of our mission to bear witness to the Gospel in a world that often forgets its Creator.

Teaching: The Ascension teaches us about the importance of the glorified body of Christ and our own resurrection. It also emphasizes our call to mission, as we are entrusted with continuing the work of Christ as members of His Body in the world.

Big Idea: By understanding the Ascension not merely as an event in history, but as an invitation to a transformative relationship with Christ, we are challenged to live out our faith actively and purposefully, participating in His salvific mission.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this homily, consider examining N. T. Wright's works on the significance of the Ascension and its theological implications for a transformed view of creation and our relationship with the cosmos. Utilizing your Verbum library, look into the historical context of these passages and how different Church Fathers interpreted the Ascension, as this may provide valuable insights that enrich your message.

Readings: The common thread among these readings is the theme of transformation — both in Christ through His Ascension and in us as we respond to His call to be His witnesses.

Catechism Points

Bible Passage: Acts 1:1–11

Summary: The Ascension signifies the glorification of Christ, a key aspect of our salvation.

Catechism Numbers: 659, 663

Bible Passage: Eph 1:15–23

Summary: Paul's prayer reveals the connection between the Resurrection, Ascension, and the Church’s mission.

Catechism Numbers: 788, 795

Bible Passage: Luke 24:46–53

Summary: The Great Commission given after the Ascension highlights our role in spreading the Gospel.

Catechism Numbers: 849, 865

1. Witnesses to His Ascension

Acts 1:1–11

Christ's Ascension invites us to embrace the mission He left for us. Maybe we can see this as a divine encouragement to recognize our role in the world. Christ ascends but does not leave us; He empowers us to testify to His love and truth. The disciples looked on, but their eyes were also being opened to new horizons of their calling. Perhaps you can embrace this mission as an invitation to foster a deeper awareness of your spiritual purpose and the activity of the Holy Spirit in guiding you to witness to the Gospel in everyday life.

2. Empowered by Christ's Triumph

Eph 1:15–23

Paul's prayer illuminates the power available to us through Christ's triumphant Ascension. Perhaps this passage impels you to pray for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so your heart may be enlightened. In understanding the Ascension, you might reflect on how this profound mystery continues to transform your journey as the Church. It could be a moment to recommit to being part of Christ's body, strengthened by His ascended presence that fills all things, helping you uphold His mission with the strength and hope procured through His victory.

3. Commissioned and Sent Forth

Luke 24:46–49

Jesus commissions His disciples before ascending, granting them a mission of profound significance and a promise of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps you see this as an opportunity to consider how you are living out the Great Commission today. Jesus’s Ascension is not an end but a beginning, inviting you to await the Holy Spirit's power to boldly proclaim the Gospel. You might reflect on how the Ascension calls you to witness to the Kingdom of God, not merely by words but through a life transformed by His ascended glory and grace.

4. A Joyful Ascent in Worship

Luke 24:50–53

As the disciples witness Jesus' Ascension, they respond with great joy and worship, foreshadowing our eternal call to praise. Maybe this passage reminds you that the Ascension is a feast of hope that invites a life rooted in worship and continuous growth in faith. Could you embrace this joy in worship, realizing that the Ascension lifts your gaze to Christ, the one who reigns with authority? It might suggest a chance to experience the transformative power of worship as a foretaste of the eternal celebration, strengthening your earthly pilgrimage.