Deacon Jim Knipper gives a homily on the Feast of the Ascension. He explains that while traditionally depicted as Jesus rising bodily into heaven, the Ascension actually teaches that Jesus' absence allows believers to experience God's presence through the Holy Spirit. Jesus' departure created a "hole" in the disciples that only God could fill. Absence makes us appreciate presence. The Ascension is not a one-time event but reveals how God meets us in our suffering and doubt to strengthen our faith, hope and love.