The mission is too big, the message is too hard, and we are too weak to accomplish it on our own. In a world centered on self, the call to repentance and salvation can feel uncomfortable. Yet Jesus did not leave his disciples alone. The Ascension means that he is not absent, but completely available to the Church he sends on mission. The Lord who sends us, goes with us, gives us everything we need for the mission. And the image of the Ascending Lord shows us that this promise is guaranteed.