Regarding the Ascension, the Catechism states: "Being seated at the Father's right hand signifies the inauguration of the Messiah's kingdom, the fulfillment of the prophet Daniel's vision concerning the Son of man: "To him was given dominion and glory and kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed." After this event the apostles became witnesses of the "kingdom [that] will have no end" (CCC 664)". Jesus is exalted as Lord and now exercises his Lordship; He is the Pantocrator, the "Ruler of All" (cf. Eph. 1:20-23). The Church is his Body, the Fullness of Him who fills all in all (Eph. 1:23). You are a member of that Church. The Lord's Ascension into glory has also changed the way you are to be present to people and to the world. Read the following articles about the Sunday Readings and use the following for your reflection.
Articles for the Readings for Ascension Sunday
- Mark 16:19-20 He Ascended Into Heaven and is Seated at the Right Hand of the Father
- Eph. 1:15-23 That You May Know
- Mag-aral Tayo Ang Pag-akyat sa Langit (Markos 16:19-20)
1. With the Ascension of the Lord, we are given a sneak preview of our own "upward calling". Jesus, the Head of His Body the Church has preceded us at the right hand of the Father. "He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father" we say in the Creed. That too is our destination.
Reflect. When we were children, our parents and those older than us would ask: "What would you like to be?" The Feast of the Ascension reminds us of the purpose of our existence: "To serve and love God so that we may be with Him in heaven." What currently is your dream? Does it involve being with the Lord at the right hand of the Father? Is your existence directed towards full fellowship with the Lord?
2. The exaltation of the Lord to the Father's right hand anchor's our hope. He regards us as his "brothers" with whom He wishes to live in fellowship.
Reflect. During these past Sundays, we have been hearing the words of the Lord as he describes the way he regards us: he calls us "his own" (4th Sunday), "the branches" of the Vine that He is (5th Sunday), his "friends" (6th Sunday). How do you regard Him? How have you let Him into your life?
3. The Feast of the Ascension also reminds us of the mission of the Church: evangelization.
Reflect. By your baptism, you have become a participant in the mission of the Church. You have taken on the three-fold office of Christ, prophet, king and priest; by baptism you are leader. How do you exercise leadership in evangelization? In what ways have you been proclaiming the good news to your family, friends, co-workers or classmates? How has your consecration to the Lord made you a leader according to His own heart?
