5 Soul-Searching Steps to Prepare for Ascension 2025
Prepare for the Feast of the Ascension 2025. Learn 5 steps including scripture reading with guided prayers from a helpful Bible app, reflection, and seeking the Holy Spirit.
Let's have a heart-to-heart about getting ready for the Feast of the Ascension in 2025. It's a special time for us as Christians, remembering Jesus going up to be with God. But it's not just about looking back; it's also about how we live our lives now. So, here are five things I think are good for us to think about and prepare for as we approach this day.
1. Reflecting on Jesus's Victory and Our Hope
Think about what the Ascension really means. It wasn't just Jesus leaving; it was him taking his rightful place after conquering sin and death. That's a huge win for us! As 1 Corinthians 15:57 says, "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." Before the Ascension, let's take some time to really reflect on this victory and the hope it gives us for our own future with God. It’s about remembering that because Jesus rose and ascended, we too have that promise.
2. Diving Deeper: Re-reading Scripture and Finding Prayer Guidance
Sometimes, we can go through these important events in the Bible without really soaking them in. Let's take some time to re-read the stories of the Ascension. You can find them in Acts 1:6-11 and also get glimpses in other places like Mark 16:19 and Luke 24:50-53. To enhance your understanding and connection, consider using a Free Bible app. Beyond just reading and listening to Scripture, many offer guided prayers categorized by specific themes. These structured prayers can be incredibly helpful in focusing your thoughts and deepening your conversation with God as you reflect on these pivotal biblical events.
3. Checking In With Our Own "Great Commission"
Before he ascended, Jesus gave his followers a big task: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:19-20). This "Great Commission" isn't just for pastors or missionaries; it's for all of us. As we approach the Ascension, let's take a moment to think about how we're living out this call in our own lives. Are we sharing God's love? Are we helping others learn about Jesus, in our own way, wherever we are?
Source: Google Image
4. Praying for the Holy Spirit's Continued Guidance (A Prayer for Wisdom and Strength)
Jesus promised that even though he was leaving physically, he wouldn't leave us alone. He promised the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). The Ascension paved the way for the Spirit to come in full power at Pentecost. As we prepare for the Ascension, let's earnestly pray for the Holy Spirit's continued guidance in our lives.
Let's pray: Heavenly Father, we humbly ask for the gift of your Holy Spirit. Grant us wisdom to discern your will, strength to follow your path, and clarity to understand your Word. Guide our steps, illuminate our minds, and empower us to live lives that honor Jesus, our ascended Lord. Amen.
5. Cultivating an Eternal Perspective
The Ascension reminds us that this world isn't our final home. Jesus went to prepare a place for us (John 14:2-3). This should shape how we live our lives here and now. It's about focusing on what truly matters – things that have eternal value, like our relationship with God and how we love and serve others. As we get ready for the Ascension, let's take some time to think about our priorities. Are we getting caught up in things that won't last, or are we investing in things that have eternal significance?
So, as we look forward to the Feast of the Ascension, remember that in 2025, this significant day falls on Thursday, May 29th. Let's take these five steps to heart. It's a time to reflect, to connect with Scripture, to check our hearts, to pray for God's Spirit, and to remember where our ultimate hope lies. Let's prepare ourselves spiritually to truly appreciate and celebrate this amazing event.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main focus of the blog post?
It focuses on five key areas for reflection and preparation for Christians leading up to the Feast of the Ascension in 2025.
What are the five steps suggested in the article?
Reflecting on Jesus's victory and hope, re-reading scripture (with a Bible app suggestion), checking our "Great Commission," praying for the Holy Spirit's guidance, and cultivating an eternal perspective.
What aspect of the Holy Spirit is highlighted in the preparation?
The importance of praying for the Holy Spirit's continued guidance, wisdom, strength, and help in understanding God's will.
What does the article say about the "Great Commission" in relation to the Ascension?
It emphasizes that the Great Commission given by Jesus before his Ascension is a call for all Christians to share God's love and help others learn about Jesus.
What is the significance of cultivating an eternal perspective before the Ascension?
It reminds believers that this world is not their final home and encourages them to focus on things with eternal value, like their relationship with God and serving others.
Does the article recommend any specific actions related to scripture reading?
Yes, it suggests re-reading the accounts of the Ascension in Acts, Mark, and Luke, and using a Bible app for reading, audio, daily verses, and guided prayers.