Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter on the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord

“He Ascended — But Did Not Leave Us”

📖 Readings – Ascension of the Lord

  • Acts 1:1–11 – "Men of Galilee, why are you standing there looking at the sky?"

  • Psalm 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9 – “God mounts His throne to shouts of joy.”

  • Ephesians 1:17–23 – Christ seated at God's right hand, far above all powers.

  • Mark 16:15–20 – “Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel.”

Introduction 

In South Africa, when someone says goodbye, they don’t just leave. There’s always a delay: five more hugs, another cup of tea, walking someone to the gate, and waving till they disappear down the street. The Ascension is Jesus’ way of saying: “I’m going—but not really leaving you.”

Lifted Up to Lift Us Up

At the Ascension, Jesus returns to the Father not to abandon us, but to reign for us. He doesn't disappear into the clouds like smoke. Instead, He expands His presence—He is no longer limited by time or place. Now, through the Holy Spirit, He is with us always and everywhere.

Acts reminds us that we must not stand staring at the sky. We have a mission. Jesus entrusts us with the Gospel: to be witnesses in Mamelodi, in Soweto, in the Karoo, in all South Africa—to the ends of the earth.

Reflection Question

Am I standing still, waiting for heaven, or am I moving forward, building the Kingdom here and now?

Eucharistic Connection

At every Mass, we proclaim: “He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.” And yet, He is also truly present—in the Eucharist, in the Church, in the poor, in our neighbour. He went up, so we could rise.

Daily Practical Application

Live like someone who believes Jesus is alive and in charge.

  • Don’t give up.

  • Don’t be afraid to speak of your faith.

  • Share the hope of the Gospel with your family, your community, your country.

A South African Touch

Just as Jesus told the apostles to go out, He tells us the same—go into South Africa’s complex, painful, hopeful places. Preach not with megaphones, but with mercy. Live your faith where taxi drivers, pensioners, students, and street children can feel it.

Inspirational Quote

“Jesus has gone ahead of us into heaven, and He walks with us still—side by side on dusty roads and busy streets.”
— Fr Mathibela Sebothoma

Conclusion & Prayer

The Ascension is not about Jesus going away.
It’s about Him going ahead—preparing a place for us, sending us a mission, and walking with us always.

Let us pray:
Risen and Ascended Lord,
lift our hearts with Yours.
Help us to stop staring at the sky,
and start living with purpose, courage, and joy.
May Your Spirit move us to bring hope to our land.
Amen.

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