THE SOLEMN FEAST OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD, C

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FOR OUR SAKE

When a Filipino departs for an overseas opportunity, he sees it not primarily as a chance for personal advancement. He goes out of the country to an unknown future, in an uncharted territory, because he wants to secure the wellbeing of his loved ones. And so, we can imagine a Filipino, while working abroad, looks forward to greener pastures, and furtively looks back to where he came from, wishing everybody there is in good condition.

We always picture the Ascension of the Lord as the “finish line” of his earthly marathon. Or we see it as the crowning moment of his short but fruitful ministry for now he regains his former glory as the Divine Son. Or some say it is the “passing of the baton” to the disciples who are to continue the mission of the Master.

I think in the heart of Jesus, it is something else. His ascension is not for his own sake alone – his glory, his rest. He goes back to the Father for the sake of the flock he has gathered on earth, for the people he has reconciled to the kingdom of God. Didn’t Jesus say that he will come again? Like any OFW (overseas Filipino worker), who promises to return after a few years.  Didn’t he promise that he will precede us so he could prepare a place for us? Like any OFW, who promises also prepare the papers so his family can join him later.

After the resurrection, as Jesus returns to the Father, he brings us with him, in his mind and in his heart. He remembers us always while he basks in the glory with his Father and the Holy Spirit. He longs to be with us again and to be in touch once more with the people he loves.

The challenge is therefore, for us to be faithful to the memory of Jesus. Now that we don’t see him face to face, do we also treasure his memory and live in anticipation of a reunion?  Do we do everything so as to make this future reunion possible?

A friend when to abroad for 10 years, hoping to give better life for his family. Returning home, he was devastated to see that nothing much has changed for his family. In fact the worst have happened. Some members are into drugs, drinking, early marriages, and unemployment. What happened to the money he sent for tuition, for business, for savings? What happened to his dreams for them?

The moment of separation is a moment to relish, to treasure, to use as inspiration the memory of Jesus.  He is thinking of us. Are we also thinking of him? If we do, then lets make this world, our lives and others, a better one so as to prepare for his return.