Jesus’ resurrection and ascension calls us to be people of hope

How can we daily live our lives in hope?

By Father Chris Martin

Submitted on March 27, 2025

Last time, I wrote about how the cross was central to Christian hope. But the cross alone is not a sign of hope without Jesus’ resurrection and ascension — the fulfillment of His redemptive mission. If Christ had only suffered and died but not risen, our faith would be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14).

However, because He did rise and ascend into heaven, we have the assurance that sin and death do not have the final word. His victory is ours, and this truth calls us to be a people of unwavering hope.

Hope rooted in the resurrection

Jesus’ resurrection is the ultimate victory over despair. As St. Augustine affirms, “We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song.” This joy-filled hope is not just for our future in heaven but also empowers us to live with purpose and courage today. Jesus’ triumph over the grave assures us that suffering is not the end, but a path to new life in Him.

The ascension: A promise of glory

The ascension confirms that heaven is our true home. Jesus tells His disciples, “I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2). As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, “Jesus Christ, the head of the Church, precedes us into the Father’s glorious kingdom so that we, the members of His Body, may live in the hope of one day being with Him forever” (CCC 666). Christ’s ascension gives us confidence that He reigns in glory and will return for us.

Living as missionaries of hope

Hope is not passive — it calls us to action. As the angels asked the disciples at the ascension, “Men of Galilee, why are you standing there looking at the sky?” (Acts 1:11). This same challenge is for us today. Pope Francis reminds us, “We are called to be missionaries of hope, announcing the risen Lord by our lives and works of love” (Regina Coeli, April 17, 2017). In a world struggling with despair, violence and suffering, we are to be bearers of Christ’s light.

Strengthened by the Eucharist

Jesus does not send us on mission alone — He sustains us, especially through the Eucharist. As St. John Paul II wrote, “In the Eucharist, we have the pledge of the final coming of Christ and the foretaste of eternal joy” (“Ecclesia de Eucharistia,” 18). The Eucharist strengthens our faith and deepens our hope, helping us remain steadfast even amid trials.

Because of the resurrection and ascension and sustained by the Eucharist, we are a people of hope. As St. Paul urges, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12). May we live this hope daily and inspire others to do the same.