Jesus Christ the Messiah, anointed by the Father with the Holy Spirit, fulfils the messianic hope of Israel in His threefold office of Priest, Prophet, and King. As Priest, the Mediator of the New Covenant, He brings us into communion with the Father through His life-giving suffering and sacrifice (cf Acts 1:3). As Prophet, He proclaims the Kingdom of God, reveals the Father’s Will, and calls all to conversion (cf Acts 1:3). As King, He reigns not by earthly force but by loving service, drawing all creation to Himself and ordering all things to God (cf Eph 1:20–23). However, these roles belong not to Christ alone. At Baptism, each Christian is joined to Him in His mission and we are made members of Christ’s Body, and share in His priestly, prophetic, and kingly functions. Therefore, we are called to offer our lives in worship and prayer, to bear witness in word and deed, and to serve others with Christ-like love.

The Ascension of the Lord strengthens this mission: Jesus commissions His disciples, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to be His witnesses “to the ends of the earth” and to teach and baptise all nations (cf Mt 28:19–20), so that the reign of God may grow among all peoples. You say you are afraid? Our Lord assures us that He is with us always, until the end of the age (cf Mt 28:20). Therefore, do not be afraid! Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord!