Why the Ascension of Jesus Still Matters: What Scripture, the Catechism, and the Creed Reveal
Please click on the Play Button to listen to the audio file
Today, the Catholic Church celebrates the Ascension of Jesus. While the universal Church traditionally commemorates this event on the Thursday forty days after Easter, many regions—including ours—have moved the celebration to the following Sunday, recognizing that such a profound moment in salvation history deserves the full attention of the faithful gathered in worship.
But what exactly is the Ascension of Jesus? What does it mean for believers today, especially those striving to follow Christ in a world filled with distraction and doubt? Let’s dive deep into this mystery—not just as an historical event, but as a living truth that changes everything.
What Scripture Teaches About the Ascension
The Ascension of Jesus is not just an epilogue to the Resurrection. It is the majestic moment when the risen Lord, having completed His earthly mission, returns to the glory He shared with the Father from all eternity. Yet, He does not ascend alone—He brings our humanity with Him.
In the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:9–11), we read how Jesus, after instructing His disciples and promising them the Holy Spirit, is “lifted up, and a cloud took Him out of their sight.” As they stand there stunned, two angels appear and ask, “Why do you stand looking up into the sky?”—as if to say, this is not an ending, but a beginning.
The Gospel of Luke (24:50–53) offers another lens: Jesus blesses His disciples, and while doing so, is taken up into heaven. Their response? Worship. Joy. Praise. No sorrow, no confusion. Just awe.
And in Mark 16:19, we hear it plainly: “The Lord Jesus, after He had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.” This image of Jesus seated at the right hand signifies divine authority—He reigns not just as Savior, but as King.
The Scriptures are unified in this message: Jesus ascends, not to abandon us, but to take His place as our exalted Lord, continuing His work through the Church and preparing us to one day follow Him into glory.
What the Catechism of the Catholic Church Teaches
The Catechism of the Catholic Church doesn’t treat the Ascension as a footnote—it presents it as an essential article of faith. In paragraph after paragraph, the Catechism unfolds the mystery with theological richness and pastoral depth.
First, it tells us that the Ascension marks “the definitive entrance of Jesus’ humanity into God’s heavenly domain” (CCC 665). This means that our human nature—redeemed and glorified in Christ—now has a place in Heaven. This is not symbolic. It is real.
It continues, “Jesus Christ is Lord: He possesses all power in heaven and on earth. He is far above all other authorities and power” (CCC 668). This is not a future hope—it’s a present reality. Jesus is enthroned now, ruling over the Church, interceding for us, and sending us His Spirit.
Furthermore, the Catechism affirms that Christ’s Ascension inaugurates the Kingdom (CCC 664). Though we still live in a world of suffering and injustice, the King has already won the victory—and He reigns.
Far from being a moment of departure, the Ascension is the Church’s assurance that Jesus remains active and present in a new and glorified way—reigning as Head of His Mystical Body and offering continual intercession for His people.
The Creed: What We Profess with Our Hearts and Voices
Every Sunday, in churches around the world, we rise and profess with one voice:
“He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.”
This line from the Nicene Creed is so familiar that we may fail to grasp its significance. But these words, rooted in centuries of faith, proclaim something profound: Jesus did not vanish—He ascended. He rose in bodily form, entering not just “up there,” but into a dimension of divine glory beyond our comprehension.
To be seated at the right hand of the Father is not a statement about geography—it’s about power. It means Jesus holds all authority in Heaven and on Earth (Matthew 28:18). It means the victory has been won. And it means He is interceding for us (Romans 8:34), reigning over us (Ephesians 1:20–22), and preparing a place for us (John 14:2–3).
When we profess the Creed, we’re not just reciting theology—we are declaring our trust that Christ is alive, active, and in control. Even when we don’t feel it. Even when the world is broken. Even when we are weary.
Why the Ascension of Jesus Still Matters Today
So what does all of this mean for you and me?
1. Jesus Is Our High Priest and Advocate
The Ascension assures us that Jesus didn’t stop caring after He left the earth. He now intercedes for us in Heaven (Hebrews 7:25). Your prayers are not ignored—they pass through the heart of Christ Himself.
2. He Sends Us the Holy Spirit
Before ascending, Jesus promised: “It is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you” (John 16:7). The Ascension paves the way for Pentecost, which we will celebrate next Sunday. It is through the Holy Spirit that Jesus remains present, guiding and empowering His Church.
3. We Are Sent into the World
After Jesus ascended, the disciples didn’t stay gazing at the sky. They went out—to preach, to baptize, to heal, to witness. The Ascension is a commissioning. Christ entrusts His mission to us. Are we taking it seriously?
4. Our Hope Is Anchored in Heaven
Christ did not just return to the Father—He brought our humanity with Him. His glorified body is the firstfruits of what awaits us (1 Corinthians 15:20). The Ascension is a promise that Heaven is not a myth. It’s our destiny.
A Moment for Reflection
Let’s pause and ask ourselves:
- Do I really believe Jesus is reigning right now in glory?
- Do I allow that belief to shape how I pray, how I live, how I love?
- Am I open to receiving the Holy Spirit He promised?
- Do I see the Ascension as an invitation to mission?
This is more than doctrine. It’s your story. Your King is alive. He has gone before you, and He calls you to follow.
Call to Action
As we celebrate the Ascension today, let’s make this feast more than a memory—let’s make it a mission.
🙏 Pray the Creed slowly today. Reflect on each line. Believe it deeply.
📖 Read Acts 1:1–11 and John 14:1–6. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand your place in God’s plan.
🔥 Prepare your heart for Pentecost. Say yes to the Holy Spirit.
💬 Share this post with someone who needs to know that Jesus is not distant. He is present, powerful, and reigning—now.
Christ is ascended.
He reigns.
And He is coming again.
Prayer: Lift Our Eyes to Heaven
Lord Jesus Christ,
You ascended into Heaven in glory,
not to leave us behind,
but to lift our humanity into the presence of the Father.
You are seated at the right hand of God,
reigning in power, interceding in mercy,
and preparing a place for us.
We praise You, O Risen Lord,
for opening the gates of Heaven
and showing us the way.
Help us to lift our eyes beyond this world,
to see You as our High Priest,
our King, our Friend,
our Savior who never abandons us.
Send us Your Holy Spirit, Lord—
the Spirit of truth and fire,
so that we may live as witnesses of Your love
in a world so desperate for hope.
May we never stand still staring at the sky,
but go forth boldly to proclaim Your Gospel,
trusting that You are with us always,
until the end of time.
Amen.
