Ascension of the Lord

by Gold Label Publications  |  06/01/2025  |  From the Clergy

Jesus has completed his earthly mission, and this signifies his enthronement as heavenly king. Jesus has also completed his Father’s mission and he now rules with all authority and intercedes with all sympathy as our mediator and high priest. There are four main implications of this for our lives today. First, Jesus is presently reigning as king and remains active and engaged in our world and our lives. Second, we therefore need to live boldly, confidently and strategically as servants of the exalted king of heaven. Know that your labors in the Lord Jesus are not in vain (1 Cor 15: 58).

Third, sufferers take heart that Jesus is not indifferent to your struggles. He has endured great suffering and is thus the most merciful and sympathetic counselor and mediator. He hears your prayers and can respond with all the authority of heaven. Finally, hope in a glorious future. The ascended Lord will return. He will abolish injustice, end suffering, and destroy death and set up his Kingdom of truth, righteousness and love. Jesus was restored to the disciples when he was resurrected but soon ascended into heaven. They should have been unhappy, but they knew that he would still be in the midst as a spiritual presence. The Third Gospel tells us how Jesus’ followers are to live – worshipping God, waiting on Jesus’ promises and doing so with great joy. And we are called to be witnesses – which means we are to testify that Christ is Lord.