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Ascension and Pentecost
As we travel through this Eastertide there are two key events to anticipate. The first is Ascension (Thursday 14 May). The Ascension holds profound meaning for Christians. It marks the end of Jesus’ physical presence on earth and the completion of his earthly ministry. As he ascended to His Father in glory, it confirms to us all that he completed his mission of salvation on earth and opened the way for all to turn to God in forgiveness. With His Ascension, Jesus takes his place at His Father’s right hand, where he intercedes on our behalf.
This role is crucial as it shows us that he continues to be actively involved in our lives, mediating between us and God, our great High Priest.
We can’t talk about Ascension Day without also considering Pentecost, which takes place 50 days after Easter Sunday, this year on 24 May. The disciples wanted Jesus to stay forever. Jesus, however, knew that his time on earth was up, and it was time for the Holy Spirit to come. He had promised his disciples that he would send the Holy Spirit to guide, empower, and comfort them.
His Ascension is necessary for the Church to receive this gift, making it a key moment in the Christian calendar. With Jesus’ departure, the responsibility to continue his work on earth shifts to his disciples and, by extension, to us as Christians. This moment signals the transition from Jesus’ direct ministry to the era of the Church, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Steve Beynon
