What does the ascension of Jesus mean for you this week? As a church we celebrate the big events in the life and ministry of Jesus: his birth, his death and resurrection, we even take note of some of his other milestones: his baptism, transfiguration, Pentecost. But how often do we think about his ascension? Why is it important? The ascension (40 days after Easter) was the day Jesus took his rightful place as the ruler of this world- this was his coronation ceremony. From there, everything he achieved in his ministry is applied to believers everywhere: His righteous life can cover your failures, wherever you are, whatever you’ve done. His resurrection can be the guarantee of your resurrection. His presence in the throne room means he is interceding for you. His wisdom and teaching is applied to you by his Spirit. His Spirit is the testimony in your life of his love, his goodness, his power for us. Today we continue to explore Acts chapter one. Even though the disciples were waiting for the gift of the Holy Spirit, they were preparing for mission in joyful, united prayer, full of the assurance that Jesus was in his rightful place. If we had this same, clear vision of Jesus in the throne room, applying the benefits of his ministry to us, continuing his ministry among us– would our week look any different?
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