As we gather in contemplative spirit on the eve of the Ascension, our hearts and minds turn towards the profound mysteries of Christ’s final moments on earth and His glorious return to the Father. The readings of Ephesians 4:7-13 and John 17:1-11, especially resonant during this Vigil, invite us to delve deeply into the themes of unity and divine mission. These passages not only illuminate the path Christ has laid before us but also beckon us to reflect on our individual roles within the collective calling of the Church.
Grace and Gifts: Ephesians 4:7-13
Saint Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, emphasizes the diversity of gifts granted by Christ, who “ascended on high and led captivity captive” (Eph 4:8). Each believer is endowed with grace according to Christ’s measure, a profound reminder of the personalized calling that harmonizes with the universal mission of the Church. This diversity in unity is the foundation upon which the Church builds its strength and coherence.
“Gifts” here refer to the roles within the Church—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Their purpose? “For the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Eph 4:12). Paul’s vision is a Church where every member contributes to the whole, each person’s gifts serving to weave a stronger communal fabric, promoting growth and unity in faith until we reach “the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God” (Eph 4:13).
On this Vigil of the Ascension, let us ponder our unique gifts. How are we called to build up the body of Christ? In a world that often highlights division, how does our unique contribution foster unity and understanding within our community?
Eternal Life and Divine Glory: John 17:1-11
In the Gospel of John, we are privy to the intimate prayers of Jesus, speaking to His Father on behalf of His disciples, encapsulating His earthly mission. His prayer, profound in its simplicity and depth, revolves around the themes of glory and eternal life: “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You” (Jn 17:1).
Eternal life, as defined by Jesus in this prayer, is “that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (Jn 17:3). This knowledge isn’t mere intellectual understanding but an intimate, transformative relationship with God. As Christ prepares to leave His disciples, His concern is their unity—a unity reflecting the perfect, indivisible union of the Father and the Son: “that they may be one as We are one” (Jn 17:11).
On this sacred night, we reflect on this divine unity to which we are called. In what ways does our life reflect the unity of the Father and the Son? How do our relationships and community life mirror the divine life of the Trinity?
Unity in Ascension: A Call to Holiness
As we commemorate Christ’s Ascension, we are reminded that our journey is both a personal and a communal pilgrimage towards holiness and unity in Christ. The ascension of Christ compels us to lift our hearts and set our minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col 3:2). It calls us to live out the gifts we have received in a manner that glorifies God and unites us more closely with one another in faith and love.
This Vigil of the Ascension, let us embrace the grace bestowed upon us by Christ. Let us commit anew to live out our divine mission, to know God deeply, and to bring the light of this knowledge into the relationships and communities we are part of. Let this night be a testament to our yearning for unity in Christ and our relentless pursuit of living out His divine will.