The Ascension of the Lord – Solemnity Readings:Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:17-23; Matthew 28:16-20 The Solemnity of the Ascension reveals that the Risen Christ did not disappear from the world, but entered into the glory of the Father while remaining mysteriously present with His Church. In the Acts of the Apostles (1:1–11), the Ascension is described with profound simplicity and truth: “He was lifted up while they looked on, and a cloud took him from their sight.” The cloud does not signify absence, but the divine presence and glory into which Christ enters. The disciples no longer see Him with earthly eyes, yet He reigns alive and exalted. In the Letter to the Ephesians (1:17–23), the Ascension becomes an invitation into “the rich glories” promised to the saints. Christ ascends not to distance Himself from humanity, but to open heaven for humanity. His glorified humanity becomes the destiny toward which we are called. In the Gospel of Matthew (28:16–20), the Ascension is deeply mission-oriented: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” The disciples are not asked to remain gazing at the sky, but to continue Christ’s mission in the world. The Ascension therefore unites glory and mission: Christ reigns in heaven, but His presence continues through the Church sent into the world with the promise, “I am with you always.”
Don Giorgio