THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD

Today, we celebrate the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ. This sacred day marks forty days since the miracle of the Resurrection when Jesus, in His glorified body, rose above this earth to sit at the right hand of the Father.

In the gospel of Saint Matthew, we find Jesus’ comforting words to His disciples before His Ascension. He said, “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

These are His parting words, His final assurance before ascending to Heaven. He doesn’t leave them with a list of rules or a series of tasks. Instead, He leaves them with a promise—His eternal presence. Think about it: the Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth, has promised to be by our side every moment of every day.

This promise isn’t just for the apostles; it’s for you and me. It’s for everyone who believes in Him. Whenever we gather, even if it’s just two or three in His name, Jesus tells us, “I am there among them.” Isn’t that remarkable? Wherever we are, whatever we’re going through, we are not alone. Lord Jesus Christ is right there with us.

Now, you might be facing uncertainties or challenges that make you feel alone or overwhelmed. Perhaps the struggles of life have weighed you down, and you feel as though you are walking through your challenges solitary, unseen. But the truth is, we are never truly alone. God walks beside us through every trial, every challenge, and every joyous moment. Through the eyes of faith, we can see Him, feel Him, and rely on His never-ending love.

When we truly grasp the reality that Jesus is with us, it changes everything. His presence brings peace that transcends understanding. And when He stands with you, no obstacle is insurmountable. No night is too dark, no journey is too long, and no burden is too heavy. With Jesus, every end of the age is just the beginning of eternity with Him.

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
May 9, 2024