THE EXALTATION OF THE RISEN LORD AND THE COMPLETION OF HIS EARTHLY MISSION
(Primary Scripture References: Gen 5:21–24; 2 Kgs 2:1–12; Mk 16:19–20; Lk 24:50–53; Acts 1:6–12; Eph 1:20–23)
Biblical Identity and Primary References
Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God made man, completes His visible earthly ministry with His Ascension into heaven. The Ascension is not a departure into absence but a transition into glorified presence and authority. Having conquered sin and death through His Passion and Resurrection, Jesus returns to the Father, taking His glorified humanity into heaven. The New Testament records this event in Mark 16:19–20, Luke 24:50–53, and Acts 1:6–12, while its theological meaning is further developed in apostolic teaching, especially in Ephesians 1:20–23.
Historical and Cultural Background
In biblical thought, heaven signifies the realm of God’s sovereign rule rather than a distant location. To ascend is to be exalted and enthroned by God. Jewish tradition associated bodily assumption into heaven with exceptional holiness or prophetic authority, as seen in rare figures such as Enoch and Elijah. Within this framework, the Ascension of Jesus signifies not escape from the world but the public affirmation of His divine authority and messianic kingship.
Detailed Biblical Biography
Before the Ascension of Jesus, Scripture presents two significant Old Testament precedents. Enoch is described as one who “walked with God” and was taken by God without experiencing death (Gen 5:21–24). His departure occurs without witnesses, emphasizing divine initiative and mystery. Elijah’s ascension, by contrast, is dramatic and witnessed by Elisha. Taken up in a whirlwind with fiery chariots (2 Kgs 2:1–12), Elijah’s ascent confirms his prophetic authority and signals the continuation of God’s work through his successor.
After His Resurrection, Jesus remains with His disciples for forty days, instructing them about the Kingdom of God and preparing them for their mission. Near Bethany on the Mount of Olives, He blesses them and is taken up before their eyes, received by a cloud, the biblical sign of God’s presence. Unlike Enoch and Elijah, Jesus ascends by His own divine authority, returning to the Father as the victorious Son who has accomplished redemption.
References in Other Parts of the Bible
The Ascension is repeatedly affirmed in apostolic teaching. St. Paul proclaims that God raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand above every power and dominion (Eph 1:20–23). The Letter to the Hebrews presents Jesus as the great High Priest who has entered heaven itself to intercede for humanity. The Book of Revelation depicts the exalted Christ reigning in glory and guiding history toward its fulfillment.
Jewish Tradition and Understanding
In Jewish understanding, ascension signified divine favor and mission but did not imply equality with God. Enoch and Elijah remained servants of the Lord. Jesus’ Ascension, however, transcends these categories. His return to the Father reveals His unique identity as the Son who shares in God’s authority, a claim that exceeded traditional Jewish expectations and provoked controversy.
Catholic Interpretation and Teaching
The Catholic Church teaches that the Ascension marks the definitive entrance of Christ’s humanity into heavenly glory (CCC 659–665). Jesus does not withdraw from the world but enters a new mode of presence. From heaven He intercedes for the Church, reigns as Lord of history, and prepares a place for those who belong to Him. The Ascension also inaugurates the Church’s mission and prepares for the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
Connection to Jesus, Mary, and Salvation History
The Ascension completes the Paschal Mystery and advances salvation history toward its fulfillment. Christ’s exaltation opens the way for the sending of the Holy Spirit, who empowers the Church for mission. Mary, present with the apostles in prayer after the Ascension, embodies faithful hope and trust as the Church awaits the fulfillment of Christ’s promises.
Typology and New Testament Fulfillment
Enoch prefigures a life lived in communion with God. Elijah prefigures prophetic authority handed on to successors. Jesus fulfills and surpasses both, ascending not as one taken by God but as the Lord who sends the Spirit and shares His mission with the Church. The cloud that receives Him fulfills Old Testament theophanies and signifies divine enthronement.
What Makes This Event Unique
The Ascension of Jesus is unique because it unites glorified humanity with divine sovereignty. For the first time, human nature enters heaven permanently. Jesus ascends not to abandon the world but to reign over it in mercy and truth.
Strengths and Virtues Revealed
The Ascension reveals Christ’s obedience to the Father, His fidelity to His saving mission, His generosity in empowering the apostles, and His sovereign authority exercised in love.
Weaknesses, Failures, or Sins
None. The Ascension confirms the perfection and victory of Christ’s redemptive work.
Lessons for Christian Leadership and Witnessing
Christian leadership flows from the Ascended Lord rather than from human authority alone. Believers are called to live with confidence, missionary zeal, and hope, empowered by the Holy Spirit and guided by the assurance of Christ’s continuing lordship.
Reflection
The Ascension assures believers that Christ reigns even when He is no longer visible. Though physically absent, He remains present through the Holy Spirit. The Church lives between the Ascension and the promised return of Christ, sustained by hope and called to faithful witness in the world.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, Ascended and Glorified, draw our hearts toward heaven where You reign with the Father. Strengthen us by Your Holy Spirit to be faithful witnesses on earth, living in hope, obedience, and joy as we await Your glorious return. Amen.