(Jesus said) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. - Acts 1:8,9
The Ascension of our Lord is that the Son of God who firstly rose from the grave was then raised in triumph above and received into glory on the fortieth day. It happened as the disciples heard his words, bowed before Jesus’ blessing, and watched him being lifted up and away. Jesus had previously told them to wait for the promise of the Father. What was that promise? It was the coming Holy Spirit! First, however Jesus must ascend on high. And now ascended, Jesus is not absent from his people. In a real way he has ascended into presence! St. Paul tells us in the book of Ephesians, chapter four just why Jesus ascended. He says that Jesus ascended far above the heavens, in order to fill all things! Now as the Divine - man Jesus reigns as high King, with his people always until the end of the age!
Again this year we will observe the day of the Ascension of our Lord at St. John forty days after Easter! Our celebration will be held on Thursday night, May 26th at 7pm. It will be a true celebration as this time in our service we will share in the Lord’s Supper. This will be a victory feast as we gather in honor of him who hosts such a meal for us. It is a real foretaste of the joy to come in glory!
The celebration of Ascension is a little like Easter. The Lord’s ascent, his rising above, has made the way for yours as he has gone before you to make that way. Thanks to God for this inexpressible gift received by people of saving faith. What a future awaits! Jesus will make good on his promise, to remain with you always and to one day bring you to live with him in glory!
Pastor
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