Why the Ascension?

Jesus “was taken up before their very eyes,

and a cloud hid Him from their sight.”

(Acts 1:9 NIV)

History has staged significant events that have impacted the world and the prospects for mankind. Three events that have made their mark are Louis Pasteur’s first vaccination, the 1903 flight by the brothers Wright, and the 1969 landing of Apollo 11 on the moon.

But what of the Ascension? Hasn’t it changed the world . . . mankind? 

This miraculous sign from God, of Jesus being “taken up,” was the Father’s assurance of the Son’s victory and exaltation. The Ascension made for a segue of Jesus’ earthly ministry to His heavenly one. Having completed His mission, King Jesus would reign on High.

There are so many questions that can be asked of the Ascension. However, any lack in detail doesn’t diminish truth. Or significance. An easy question at the ready about His leaving is, “How can it be a good thing?”

But things aren’t always as they seem.

After all, didn’t the Cross appear victorious?

  And Death appear the victor?

    Didn’t it seem the grave had won?

       Not so!

Jesus may have been going . . . but He wasn’t leaving. And the Spirit is our Guarantee, testifying to this marvel.

Wonder runs wild with a verse like this one: “He makes the clouds His chariot and rides on the wings of the wind” (Psalm 104:3). Jesus riding on the clouds, His heavenly chariot! He returned majestically to Glory as the triumphant Head of His Church, to faithfully minister as our Great High Priest.

With such a grand exit, it’s easy to have grand wondering. But reality is greater by far—because of what became of His going.

Jesus explained that He had to go, so the Father would send the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit. This Divine Helper and Friend would bring remembrance of Jesus’ teachings to the Apostles. He would empower them to teach and preach and propel the Good News into the world. He was their Confidence, their Courage, their very Guide. And the unstoppable Force behind the explosion of the growth of the church.

As He is today. For the Gift of the Holy Spirit still empowers Jesus’ disciples to be His hands, feet, and voice on earth.

Jesus ascended to reign, rule, and intercede. 

   He ascended to have the Holy Spirit sent, to empower and gift His disciples. 

     He ascended so His love could blanket the globe -   

       Because His love, a blessed Fruit of the Spirit, is administered wherever His people are. 

         It’s history in the making.