Solemnity of the Lord’s Ascension

Reflection Date: May 17, 2026 | Solemnity of the Lord’s Ascension
Daily Readings: Acts 8:5-8, 14-17; 1 Peter 3:15-18; Matthew 28:16-20

Children of God:
Today, the seventh Sunday of Easter, is The Solemnity of the Lord’s Ascension. 

The Lord’s Ascension has deep roots in the life and worship of the Church. 

From the earliest centuries, Christians celebrated this event as the moment when Jesus returned to the Father after his resurrection. 

It was observed forty days after Easter, marking the completion of his appearances to the disciples. 

Historically, it affirmed that Jesus was not only risen but exalted, sharing fully in the glory of God. 

Early Christians saw this not as a loss but as a fulfillment of his mission. 

Liturgically, it became a feast of hope, reminding believers that heaven is their true home. 

Over time, processions, prayers, and readings were developed to highlight its meaning. 

The Ascension also served as the preparation for the community for incoming Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit would come. 

It stands as a bridge between Christ’s earthly ministry and the Church’s mission. 

This feast continues to remind us that Christ’s work did not end but continues in a new way.

In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus met his disciples and gave them a mission before his departure. 

He said, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” 

What are our inspirations for today?

First, the mission continues through us. 

The Ascension signals that believers are to be actively involved in fulfilling their calling and sharing the Gospel, rather than just waiting for his return.

Jesus said, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” 

He entrusted his disciples with a task that would continue his work. 

They were no longer just followers; they became messengers and witnesses.

The Ascension marked a turning point. 

The disciples could no longer rely on seeing Jesus physically. 

Instead, they were called to act in his name. 

This responsibility was not limited to a few but extended to the whole community of believers.

In our lives, we are also part of this mission. 

We may not travel far, but we can share faith through our words and actions. 

Every act of kindness, every moment of witness, becomes part of this calling. 

The mission continues through us.

Second, Christ’s presence remains through the Spirit and the Church.

Jesus said, “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” 

This is my favorite verse!

Even as he prepared to leave, he assured his disciples that he would remain with them. 

His presence would continue in a new and deeper way.

The Ascension opened a new form of closeness. 

Through the Spirit and through the Church, Jesus remains present. 

The disciples learned to recognize him not by sight but by faith.

In our daily journey, we may sometimes feel that God is distant. 

Yet his promise remains true. 

He is with us in our struggles, our work, and our relationships. 

Christ’s presence remains through the Spirit and the Church

As we reflect, we ask ourselves: Do I see my life as part of Christ’s mission in the world? 

Do I trust that he is with me even when I do not feel his presence? Do I take responsibility for sharing faith in my own simple ways?

Children of God:
The Ascension reminds us that endings can become beginnings. 

We are not left alone in our journey. 

Instead, we are sent with purpose and supported by his presence. 

The world today, more than ever, needs witnesses who live with faith and hope. 

We are invited to step forward with courage.