Ascension Day Service

I came forth from the Father and have come into the world. Again, I leave the world and go to the Father.

John 16:28

Where are we in the Bible? 

In the second half of John 16, Jesus repeats much of what He has already said before: He is going away; the disciples will not see Him for a brief period; when they see Him again, they will experience great joy (16:16-22). The resurrection appearances will resolve the initial problem of the pain experienced at Jesus’ death. But with the resurrection, Jesus has not returned to life as before: He is leaving the world and returning to the Father (16:28): He will no longer be present with the disciples as He had been.

And while the disciples finally claim to understand what Jesus is saying (16:29-31), Jesus warns them again that the coming days will bring challenges to faith: the disciples will be scattered, experience hostility, and need peace and courage (16:32-33). In speaking directly to His disciples, Jesus also addresses all future disciples, and all those reading the Gospel, who struggle in Jesus’ absence to persevere in following Him. What Jesus promised to those sharing that last meal with Him, He promises to all who continue to draw their life from Him.

Summary

In the midst of confusion, absence, and trial, Jesus assures His disciples, and all who follow Him, that because He comes from the Father, fulfills His mission, and returns, they can live with confidence in their identity, faithfulness in their mission, and in His enduring presence through the Spirit. As the One who came forth from the Father, was sent into the world, and returns to the Father, Jesus becomes both our foundation and example, calling us as children of God to bear witness to Him, serve faithfully, and resolutely renounce evil.

Foundational readings:

Scripture John 20:1-23

Catechism 12.1.8.8

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