Detectives look for clues after an incident, bereaved relatives divide the estate of a loved one. Computer users leave electronic "footprints" all the time; the delete key does not wipe them out. It seems that one way or another we all leave traces after us- reminders of our presence at a particular place and time.
It's also true of Jesus. We may not have anything physical left of his earthly presence - no Nazareth woodcraft from his hands. But we do have signs of his presence. Ascension Sunday is not a farewell speech and magnificent departure. We're told that "they, going out, preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word by the signs that accompanied."
When someone leaves, someone must stay behind. Still, while the disciples and our lot may be a daunting task, it's not a lonely one. Despite a physical absence, Jesus is very much present. Like someone in disguise, you can have presence in what is believed to be absence.
Perhaps the angels of the Ascension [First Reading] query us as well, "Why do you stand gazing into heaven?" Have we turned our lives and churches into observation platforms - heaven watching and booking tickets and missing the joy that is in our earthly journey? If so, it might be time to ask ourselves: What signs is he confirming in your life?
(Comments to Tom at tomascox@eircom.net )