Today, the Church celebrates one of the great solemnities in the liturgical calendar: The Ascension of the Lord. This sacred event, which took place 40 days after Jesus’ Resurrection, marks the moment when our Risen Lord ascended into heaven, body and soul, to take His place at the right hand of God the Father.
🔹 What Is the Ascension?
The Ascension is described in Acts 1:9-11:
“He was lifted up before their eyes, and a cloud took Him from their sight... This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will return in the same way.”
It is not simply about Jesus leaving. It is about Jesus being exalted, completing His earthly mission, and preparing the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. It is a celebration of victory, glory, and divine promise.
🔹 Why Does It Matter?
The Ascension reminds us:
✨ Jesus is Lord of Heaven and Earth — He reigns with authority and power.
✨ He is interceding for us in heaven (Romans 8:34).
✨ We are called to be His witnesses in the world (Acts 1:8).
✨ He will return — and we must live in hope and readiness.
🔹 Our Response
The Solemnity of the Ascension is both a celebration and a call:
Rejoice in Christ's eternal kingship.
Renew our commitment to live as His disciples.
Remember that our true home is in heaven.
Let us lift up our hearts today and say:
"You have ascended in glory, O Christ our King! Draw us to Yourself and fill us with Your Spirit."
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🙏 A Prayer for the Ascension
Lord Jesus,
You ascended in glory, not to leave us behind, but to go before us and prepare a place for us.
Fill our hearts with longing for heaven, courage for the mission, and joy in Your victory.
Help us to be faithful witnesses of Your love until You come again in glory. Amen.
