Ascension of the Lord – 17 May 2026

Readings: Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:17-23, Matthew 28:16-20

Introduction

My dear friend, today we celebrate the great feast of the Ascension of the Lord. Jesus returns to the Father, not because He is abandoning us, but because His mission on earth is now entrusted to us. The Ascension is not about Jesus disappearing into the clouds. It is about Jesus lifting humanity into the heart of God and reminding us that we are called to live with purpose, courage, and hope.

Sometimes we feel alone, uncertain, or overwhelmed by life. Yet today Jesus says: “I am with you always, until the end of the age.” Those words are the heartbeat of this feast.

Story

A little boy once flew a kite so high that it disappeared into the clouds. A man walking past asked, “How do you know the kite is still there if you cannot see it?”

The boy smiled and said, “Because I can still feel it pulling!”

That is often how faith works. We may not physically see Jesus, but we still feel His presence pulling us upward — toward goodness, hope, prayer, and love.

The Word

In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, the disciples are staring into the sky after Jesus ascends. Two angels ask them, “Why are you standing there looking at the sky?” In other words: “Do not just stand there. Go and continue the mission.”

The Ascension is not an ending; it is a commissioning.

In the second reading, Letter to the Ephesians reminds us that Christ is seated in glory above every power and authority. This means that no earthly problem, fear, political power, or suffering is greater than Christ. Even when the world seems chaotic, Christ reigns.

Then in the Gospel from Gospel of Matthew, Jesus gives the Great Commission:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”

Notice something beautiful: the disciples still had doubts, yet Jesus still trusted them with His mission. God does not wait for perfect people. He works through willing people.

Jesus also promises:

“I am with you always.”

Not sometimes. Not only in church. Always.

He is with you in your loneliness, your work, your disappointments, your prayers, and your silent tears.

Three Practical Lessons for Today

1. Stop Looking Down — Look Up with Hope

The Ascension reminds us not to be trapped by negativity and despair. Lift your eyes beyond your current struggles. God still has a future for you.

When life becomes heavy, remember: your story is not over.

2. Christianity Is a Mission, Not a Spectator Sport

The disciples could not remain standing and staring at the sky. They had to go into the world.

You may not preach to crowds, but you can evangelise through kindness, encouragement, honesty, forgiveness, and compassion. Sometimes the greatest sermon is simply how you treat people.

3. Never Forget That Jesus Is With You

Even when prayers seem unanswered, Christ walks beside you. The Ascension means Jesus is no longer limited to one place; through the Holy Spirit He is present everywhere.

You are never abandoned.

Inspirational Quote

“God did not bring you this far to leave you halfway.”

Conclusion

My dear friend, the Ascension challenges us to live differently. Jesus entrusts His mission to ordinary people like us. He calls us to rise above fear, rise above hopelessness, and become witnesses of hope in the world.

Today, do not remain standing still spiritually. Move forward. Pray again. Love again. Hope again. Begin again.

Christ has ascended, but His presence remains alive in you.

Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ,
as You ascended into heaven,
You did not leave us alone.
Fill our hearts with courage, faith, and hope.
Help us to live as Your witnesses in the world.
When we feel discouraged, remind us that You are always with us.
Teach us to lift others up instead of pulling them down.
May our lives reflect Your love and Your light.
Amen.