I WILL BE WITH YOU UNTIL THE END OF THE AGE

I WILL BE WITH YOU UNTIL THE END OF THE AGE

A Gospel Reflection for The Ascension of the Lord - May 17, 2026

When I think back to my childhood, I remember that televisions were a rare luxury, owned by only a few families in our town. Most of us did not really miss them, except on Tuesday nights. That was when everyone gathered to watch The New Masquerade, a Nigerian sitcom known for its clever humor and memorable characters. Week after week, we watched the same episodes with the same excitement, always finding something new and sharing the joy of looking forward together. Each time felt just as special as the first, bringing us together in laughter and hope for the day we might have our own televisions.

Christ is risen, Alleluia! The Ascension marks forty days since we celebrated Christ’s resurrection. Remembering those events fills us with joy. The story never gets old, and we never tire of hearing it. It always feels new and lifts the hearts of those who listen and respond. Now, as we move from resurrection joy, we celebrate another key moment: the Ascension. Like the resurrection, it reminds us that Christ is always present. This is a story of hope and grace that brings us joy. In this new phase, his presence is even more powerful. He comes to us even when doors are closed, opening what is locked in our lives and guiding us through challenges. He still works miracles and cares for us. Now, he can be present in many places at once. We find him in the word of God, the sacraments, our ministers, and our community. That is why he said, “I will be with you till the end of time.”

To further illustrate, think about Joseph in Genesis. When he was sold into Egypt, his family missed him and thought he was lost to them forever. Yet, Joseph ultimately became their source of salvation during the famine, serving as the vital link that ensured their survival. In both cases, what seemed like a loss became a deeper source of connection and hope.

Ascension as a celebration of hope, becomes something to anticipate. It is like rising to a higher place. For instance, when sisters or daughters marry kind, influential husbands, we hope our family’s situation will improve. Similarly, Ascension is a union between heaven and earth. Building on this idea of connection, what about our brothers and sisters with important roles or strong ties in society? They look out for us in government or at work, ensuring we are represented and don't miss opportunities. We even say: whoever has a father in heaven cannot go to hell, which means those with influence are often shielded from harm, just as powerful supporters provide safety.

When we celebrate Ascension, we are not staring into the sky, feeling lost. Instead, we look up with trust, carrying examples of connection and hope. We trust someone will lift us, and we have a role model. We have a trustworthy brother, a faithful sister, and a just, righteous, and compassionate leader. Christ lifts our spirits and gives us strength. We also learn from the Apostles, who returned joyful and more ready for their missions. They became more united and focused as they moved forward.

May we, like the Apostles, carry the hope and unity found in Christ’s ascension into our own lives. May God open our hearts to see the abundance in every season, transform our limitations into opportunities for joy, and renew our dreams with every new day.

Lord, grant us the grace to lift each other up, to cherish the power of community, and to always look forward with hope and gratitude. Amen.

by Father John Offor