In the 5th
century, St. Augustine, one of the most influential writer and theologian,
wrote “The City of God.” The book was in response to allegations that
Christianity brought about the decline of the Roman Empire. Through it, he
presents human history as a conflict between the Earthly City and the City of
God; the warfare between good and evil. In the end, the City of God would
ultimately triumph because it is guided by Divine Providence. St. Augustine
wanted his readers to fix their eyes on heaven, while their two feet are set
firmly on the ground.
The Second Vatican
Council’s Gaudium et Spes Document
further confirms: “The Lord Jesus is the goal of human history, the focal point
of the longings of history and of civilization, the center of the human race,
the joy of every heart and the answer to all its yearnings.” In this view, the
world and all its treasures are simply passing away. The Earthly City is merely
temporary. We need to gaze way up and beyond to the real treasure that last
forever.
Today, we remember
the ascension of Jesus into heaven. He reminds us of our dual citizenship.
While we are citizens of this world, we are also citizens of heaven which is
our real home. After his sojourn on this earth, Jesus has completed his task
and mission of revealing the love and mercy of God. He has shown the world the
path to greatness and glory. He is now returning to the Father after winning
the world through the painful experience of his cross and calvary. For Jesus,
it has been mission accomplished!
Moreover, he now
entrusts the mission to his disciples and to every church member. The mandate
is: “Go and Teach. Be my witnesses.” We are now the bearer of Christ’s message
of love and forgiveness today. He challenges us to make a stand and become the
light of the world. We are entrusted with the responsibility of building the
kingdom day by day in all sectors of society. Empowered by the spirit, we start
this mission at home by making our life our message.
Prayer: Lord, let me own your mission as my vocation; let me be your witness today by what I say and do. Amen.
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