I remember one time when my parents went out and left myself and my older brother home alone. We were young teenagers and were given very strict instructions about doing the dishes and then doing our homework. In the context of our lives, we were left with a big responsibility. Well, we failed.
The Gospels have many parables where a master sets out on a long journey and leaves someone in charge of their estate. The parables highlight the responsibility that these people were left with to ensure that life continued as the master had wished.
As we begin to prepare ourselves the feast of the Ascension which occurs 40 days after the Resurrection of Jesus, we see how the parable becomes a reality. Jesus departs into Heaven, leaving his disciples with the responsibility to carry on his work.
Their mission was to bear witness to the message of Jesus and to proclaim it to all nations. It is fair to say that they did not fail in their responsibility as, 2000 years later, we are still contemplating the significance of Jesus’ message.
This mission, however, was not just left to the care of those who were with Jesus. It is the responsibility of all who have listened and believe. If we are indeed to be Faithful to our call to be Christian, then we need to reflect on the importance that the message of Jesus has on us and, especially, our effectiveness in living it.
The ascension of Jesus completes his resurrection. His journey had come full circle in that from God he came and to God he returned, and consequently, completed the final act of our redemption.
He did not leave us but rather guide us, and show us the way to a new life with God. It’s up to us now, to show others.
We pray to God for courage so that we don’t fail in our responsibility as Christians.
Enrico Caprioli
APRIM
