Ascension of the Lord (May 26/May 29, 2022)
Today we celebrate the conclusion of Jesus’ mission from his Father.
We see Jesus stand before his chosen eleven as the Christ, Lord of the universe. With full authority for the salvation of the world, he sends the Eleven forth to make disciples of all the nations. They are to baptize in the name of the Trinity, and teach all they have been commanded by Jesus.
Then Jesus returns to his Father, leaving the earth in his bodily form. His leaving emphasizes the importance that faith will play in their mission. They are to put their trust in the Spirit he will leave with them, and they are to act on all they have been taught to believe. They will have doubts and fears as they go, so they are to remember his final words to them: “Know that I am with you always.” Jesus’ abiding presence with them through the Spirit will give them strength and courage when they need it to continue their efforts.
You and I continue the mission of making disciples of the nations. We are asked to act on our belief. When we feel the insecurities of the journey, we need to recall Jesus’ promise: “I am with you always.” His Spirit will provide the strength we need to continue on. We are not to waste time trying to judge our success or failure as we go. Jesus asks only our faith in him and the best effort we can give today. How often St. Francis de Sales reminds us to begin each day anew and try to be faithful in letting Jesus live in us and love through us.
Let us renew our faith in all that Jesus has taught us and set about living it. Jesus will accompany us on our mission journey today and every day.
