Now you see Him.  Now you don’t.  That has pretty much been the situation throughout our Easter scriptures that recount the appearances (and disappearances) of the resurrected Lord.  With each appearance the apostles (and we) learn more about what exactly “raised from the dead” means and what it doesn’t mean. 
                 
Today is the feast of the Ascension of the Lord.  It marks the separation between when the resurrected Jesus was visibly present to the disciples and when they no longer saw Him.  In two weeks we will celebrate the feast of Pentecost, the descent of the Holy Spirit upon all who believed.  While it is all true, we know there are discrepancies between the Gospels and we know that the people who lived in Palestine during the first century, including the evangelists, were limited, as we are, by their frame of reference and by the incapacity of language to capture these wondrous events. 
                 
For example, in today’s Gospel we hear that Jesus “was taken up into heaven.”  That was language that the people recognized because it brought them to their memory of faith about Elijah who was taken up in a flaming chariot. We are able to visualize both the Gospel and Old Testament images.  But the disappearance, the taking up of Jesus was not the same as Elijah’s any more than Jesus’ resurrected self was a ghost.  Jesus had truly died and was buried.  He is the firstborn from the dead, revealing what awaits us all.  And yet, it exceeds our imaginations and language.  This new creation is a new creation, and we are part of it now, even in its hiddenness. 

Now you see Him.  Now you don’t.  Still, it is all true and Mark’s Gospel today proclaims wondrous things for those who believe. Driving out demons, speaking new languages, picking up serpents, drinking poison without effect, and healing the sick are possible for all who believe and call on the name of the Lord.   

Do you believe?  Believe that the resurrection and ascension of Jesus reveal what awaits you too?  If you do, Jesus promises that you can be rid of whatever has taken over your life or the life of someone you love; any addiction or obsession.  All failures in communication with your children or your parents, with whomever you simply cannot connect, can be repaired, all ruptures in relationship restored.  What frightens you will no longer have power over you, and best of all, true healing can occur for those who are sick.  All when you call on the name of the Lord.

These are but a foretaste of what awaits us.  Now you see Him.  Yes, of course, see Him in all these signs, and rejoice!