What could have the apostles felt upon seeing Jesus ascending into heaven? Probably, they have also experienced separation anxiety; maybe they wanted to cling at his feet as he was being taken up. Indeed, it is not easy to say goodbye. But Jesus needs to go to the Father.
The Ascension of Jesus does not mean that he has left us already. It is not really goodbye, but it is telling us “I am with you always.” Jesus is present in our lives, in his Word and in the Sacraments.
He has given us a mandate, the great commission of, “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Good News to every creature.” This is the role of every Christian to make Jesus known, to proclaim his message, the Good News.
We also celebrate the 52nd World Communications Sunday with the theme: “The truth will set you free (Jn 8:32), Fake news and journalism for peace.” As Christians, we are reminded to be vanguards of truth because the Good News is always founded and based in truth. We live in a world that rather loves to be comforted with a lie than be confronted by the truth. Let us not be afraid, let us choose the truth, stand for the truth; as Jesus promised to be with us, to accompany us. The world may hate us so, but we will get the ultimate reward of heaven.
We also remember today the person who has taught us the most important lessons in life, the first person who became the bearer of the Good News for us, our Mothers. We give them all the love that they deserve, and honor them by applying in our lives the lessons they taught us.
As Christians, let us face the challenge of making God relevant in this post-modern age; anywhere we are, in everything that we do, may we bear witness to Jesus and make his presence felt by living according to his teachings and examples. Yes, it may not be easy; but remember: he never left us and he is always with us ‘til the end of time.
Rev. Fr. Pio John Christopher Ma. Herrera, MMHC
College Chaplain, Cainta Catholic College
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