It's Ascension Day. And whether you're in a church that celebrates such dates or not, it's worth stopping and pondering once in a while just how exciting the ascension really is.
Luke recorded it. Paul celebrated it. And the writer of the Hebrews applied it to Christians under pressure. Because, far more than just Jesus' farewell to the world - the necessary step before the sending of his Spirit - the ascension has profound implications for our lives. The ascension points to great truths that spur us on in the here and now and help us look forward to the life to come.
Packer, in his Concise Theology flags up 3 reasons to get celebrate the ascension:
1. Christ's personal ascendancy
The cross was not a mistake. Jesus' ministry did not fail. He is the King of the universe. And nothing is outside his control.
[He] has gone into the heavens and is at God's right hand - with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him. 1 Peter 3:22
2. Christ's spiritual omnipresence
Jesus is accessible to us all! And powerful to help us no matter where we are.
Therefore since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess ... Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:14&16
3. Christ's heavenly ministry
Jesus is working for our good - and the good of all the elect - while seated on his throne. He is praying for us, intervening for us, lavishing the benefits he won on the cross on us and equipping us for service.
Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Hebrews 7:25
And, of course, he is busy preparing a place for us - a place for us to join him in the wonder of eternal bliss. (John 14:13)
So why not spend a moment thanking God for the wonder of the ascension and the many benefits it brings to those who believe in Jesus? It's great to look up and fix our eyes on Jesus.
