Today we remember the day Jesus returned to heaven, traditionally called Ascension Day. In the account left by Luke, who was not present at the time but interviewed those who were, we are told:
”. . . while He blessed them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshipped Him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the Temple blessing God.”
Lord, I am struck by a number of things in the description of this event. First, you left as you were blessing. Secondly, the ones you left were filled with joy and then, they in turn blessed God. What an oxymoron - that in such a time of loss they were joy-filled and blessed. It all began with you blessing in leaving. I wonder what you said? Oh, “Repentance and forgiveness of sin should be proclaimed…” That would definitely be good news to those who do not yet know.
Like you child, I prefer this image to those showing me looking upward in my departure. It was indeed a grand reunion of sorts when I returned to heaven but I was not anxious to leave. It was part of the plan and Holy Spirit was to come in my place to be with you. I was happy to be returning but not anxious to leave. My heart is still with you but I have also carried you with me into heavenly places. Remember, you are sitting with me as I have drawn all who trust in my provision into the place I am (Ephesians 2.6).
Amazing! You are amazing. Like those who saw you rise, I am amazed and worship you, filled with joy because of who you are and what you have done. And humbled, that you have carried us, carried me into heaven, that we can approach God. Thank you for this wonderous thing you have done, Father, Son and Holy Spirit - seated us in heavenly places with you yet, here with us by your Spirit, enabling us to live a life that has been resurrected from the dust of death. Let the songs of rejoicing hearts be forever heard. For we too, have Ascended in You.
I can hear the music – it is sweet to my ears. Let the sound of singing be heard in the land for the hope of Spring rises eternal in the life I have for you. Come to me, all who are weary, and I will give you rest. I will carry you, giving you life from the never-ending spring, the Fountain of Life.
