Ascension is both an end and a beginning. Ascension can be understood as an end because it marks the final moments of Jesus’ public ministry and the end of his physical bond with his disciples. Ascension is also a beginning because the physical absence of Jesus marks the beginning of the disciples’ mission to bring Jesus and his gospel to the people. I also mentioned last Sunday that Jesus “works from home” in heaven while seated at the right hand of the Father. Before he ascended into heaven, he promised the Holy Spirit to his apostles to guide them, to inspire them, to animate them, as they preach the gospel of Jesus. And that promise finds its fulfilment today as we celebrate the feast of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles.