Starting a new chapter in life isn’t always easy. Fr. Michael Mohr, SJ, reflects on how the Ascension of Jesus marks the beginning of the Apostles’ work. Based on the readings for the Solemnity of the Ascension of Our Lord.
This is only the beginning.
I’m Father Michael Mohr, and this is my One Minute Homily.
What seems like an ending is actually a beginning. Graduations can leave us feeling bittersweet. Even though it is exciting to start a new chapter of life, it is also difficult leaving friends behind, not knowing when we will see them again. While complex feelings through transitions are normal, we look with hope to the day when we all might meet again.
At the beginning of the Acts of the Apostles, the disciples leave in joy because they trust in the parting words of their friend Jesus, that he will come again in glory. The Gospel of Luke, ending with the Ascension, becomes the beginning of the story for Christians. Jesus’ call to his Apostles to be witnesses of the Faith is sustained by his promise to remain with them always through the Holy Spirit.
We continue the earthly mission of Jesus until we meet Him again joyfully when he returns.
