Expectation of the Ascension
In the first book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and teach until the day when he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. After his suffering he presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God. While staying with them, he ordered them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait there for the promise of the Father. “This,” he said, “is what you have heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
Acts 1:1-5 (NRSVUE)
After his resurrection, Jesus spent another forty days preparing the apostles for his ascension and for Pentecost, when they would be empowered by the Holy Spirit.
During these forty days of Eastertide, may we focus on the kingdom’s movements in our lives and in the world today. What were Jesus’ instructions to his apostles? Where do you see God’s clear actions in your life through the Holy Spirit?
The Ascension is a crucial step in the incarnation of Jesus. Without the ascension, his incarnation isn’t complete. When he ascended, Jesus took us to the Father’s presence.
Thursday, 29 May 2025 is Ascension Day, — may we spend extra time focusing on Jesus’ teaching to his apostles and the importance of his ascension.
Prayer
Father, you have received the glorified Jesus into the Godhead as our High Priest, Mediator, and Intercessor. You have seated us in the heavenlies with him. We praise you for such an amazing plan and ask you to increase our understanding of the Ascension. In the name of the ascended Jesus, we pray. Amen.
First published on 24 March 2024 in GCI Update Devotionals https://update.gci.org
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Study by: Glen Weber About the author: |
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