The Ascension of the Lord

Celebrating this Sunday’s feast of the Ascension it struck me forcibly that like the disciples in Bethany that day 1980 years ago we too are called to be Jesus witnesses as much as they were.

 

A witness gives evidence in public to a fact and an event; is prepared to take an oath to that end; and some witnesses have died preserving the integrity of the truth of their beliefs. (a witness in Greek is a ‘martyr’). We have an opportunity each day through words, actions, example, behaviour, appearance, conversations, standing up for what is right, what is true, what is pure and honourable, unafraid of the consequences – for the right to life, the sanctity of marriage, chastity, honesty and to be unafraid to be identified as a Christian. We are called to be witnesses to the fundamental truths of our Faith. At every opportunity at home, in the family circle, in the workplace and above all our social responsibility in society.

We are called to speak the truth in charity, which is a difficult, important and delicate task, to those who need to hear the truth of change. Anyone who has lived or worked alongside an addict knows the difficulty in speaking of the need for change, and the criticism that ensues. Having the duty and responsibility to tell the truth hurts, but speaking the truth fearlessly sets us and others free. As Catholics in particular we are called to speak up for the most vulnerable members of society, the poor, the disadvantaged and those whose lives are threatened – especially the defenceless unborn.

It is then that we realise that there is an inescapable cost to being a Christian. To be a witness for the truth is to be cross-examined, to be in the public eye, to waive anonymity, to be scrutinised, observed, and to be open to the possibility of contradiction and ridicule. In fact nearly every one of the disciples who witnessed Jesus’ ascension witnessed to Him to the point of death. The Greek word for ‘witness’ is martyr. We must be credible witnesses. This year that means witnessing to Christian marriage.