The Ascension of Jesus

The Ascension of Jesus is a founding event of the Christian faith, when the resurrected Christ ascends into heaven before his disciples, leaving behind the promise of his return and the sending of the Holy Spirit. In the Catholic tradition, this event has profound meaning and inspires believers to live in joyful expectation of the coming of the Kingdom of God.

• The Biblical Story of the Ascension

The event of the Ascension is recorded in the last verses of the first chapter of the Book of Acts of the Apostles. After spending forty days with his disciples after his resurrection, Jesus takes them to Bethany, where he blesses them and gives them his final instructions. Then, before their astonished eyes, he is taken up into heaven and disappears in a cloud.

• The Promise of the Parousia and the Sending of the Holy Spirit

Before his ascension, Jesus entrusts his disciples with the mission of bearing witness to the gospel to the ends of the earth. He also promises them that he will return one day in all his glory to establish his eternal reign. While waiting for this event, he announces to them the sending of the Holy Spirit, who will empower them to be his witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the ends of the earth.

• The Theological Significance of the Ascension

The Ascension of Jesus has profound theological significance in the Catholic tradition. It marks the glorification of Jesus as Lord and King, seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven. It also testifies to the reality of the invisible world and the promise of eternal life for those who believe in him. By ascending into heaven, Jesus opens the way for his disciples to one day join him in heavenly glory.

• Christian Life in Waiting for the Parousia

For Catholics, the Ascension of Jesus is a solemn reminder of the call to live in joyful expectation of his return. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in hope of his parousia, living according to his teachings and spreading his love and light in the world. We are called to be witnesses to the Gospel, proclaiming the good news of salvation until the day when he comes in glory to restore all things.

• Conclusion: The Joy of Ascension

The Ascension of Jesus is a mystery of joy and hope for Catholics throughout the world. As we contemplate this sacred event, we are invited to renew our faith in the promise of eternal life and to live in joyful expectation of the coming of the Kingdom of God.