Ascension of the lord 2026

Matthew 28:16-20

“Go, therefore, make disciples of all the nations.”

Reflection

A disciple is a learner – a student – a person committed to learning what the master has to teach. A modern parallel would be an apprentice – or a student musician asking a master musician to be his/her teacher. The disciple is expected not only to learn what the master teaches, but also to put it into practice. Making disciples is about bringing others to embrace a new way of living, to become devoted followers of Jesus, and to imitate his way of life. This is a slow process that cannot be rushed, a process that requires patience and personal involvement [accompaniment] on the part of the teacher.

The commission of the Risen Lord to his still fearful and confused disciples must have seemed overwhelming, impossible even. But Jesus assured them that they will not be alone. To enable his disciples to carry out his commission, he assures them of his continuing presence with them. Jesus remains Emmanuel – God with us – as much after his ascension as before. Yes, his physical presence among them ceases. This was limited to the period of his earthly life. Now, as Risen Lord, he is present to them through his Spirit, a presence without limitation.

Significantly, Jesus did not say, ‘I will be with you’ but rather ’I am with you,’ promising an always-current presence. And so, the disciples of Jesus will not be overwhelmed, but rather emboldened and empowered to carry out the commission they have received. And we, too, his disciples today, struggling to continue his mission in these uncertain and difficult will not be overwhelmed, for he who has sent us remains with us ‘until the end of time.’

Michael McCabe SMA sma.ie Intercom May 2026