Jesus' Ascension

by Fr. Jess Ty  |  05/24/2020  |  Weekly Reflection

Dear Family of God,

Do you know why Jesus had to ascend, or go back to the Father?

First, so that the Father can send us the Holy Spirit to be our second Paraclete, (or Divine Helper). Secondly, so Christ can pass us the baton to continue His mission here on earth. As the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, Jesus wants us, His Disciples, to continue what He did while He was historically present here on earth. Jesus commissioned the Apostles and their successors: “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciple of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe ALL that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Mt. 28:18-20).

His Ascension is passing us the baton. He is commissioning the Church, giving the Church the mission to continue His work of Salvation. He, Himself is working in and with us through the Holy Spirit. “They went forth and preach everywhere, while the Lord worked with them” (Mk. 16:20). May we always be aware of His Presence for truly He is always with us, as he promised.

May the Blessed Virgin Mary, help us be docile to the Holy Spirit and be faithful witnesses of her Son, Jesus.

Yours in Christ through Mary Immaculate,

Fr. Jess Ty