(Crux) Robert Imbelli–Ascension isn’t Jesus ”˜on sabbatical’ until Second Coming

By his ascension to the right hand of the Father, Jesus becomes the head of his body the Church. For the Holy Spirit, who animates the Church, is the gift of the ascended Christ. Ascension makes Pentecost possible.

Moreover, this gift of the Spirit is not a one-time occurrence, whether at Pentecost or at an individual’s baptism or confirmation. The ascended Lord is the ongoing source of spiritual gifts that enliven and build up his body.

As chapter four of the Letter to the Ephesians teaches: “when he ascended on high ”¦ he gave gifts.” The ascension bespeaks the ongoing agency of Jesus “who always lives and makes intercession for us.”

Read it all.

Posted in * Christian Life / Church Life, * Religion News & Commentary, Ascension, Christology, Church Year / Liturgical Seasons, Other Churches, Roman Catholic, Theology