The Ascension: A Celebration of Hope and Promise
The Ascension: A Celebration of Hope and Promise. Explore the biblical significance and the hope it offers. Note the Feast of the Ascension in 2025 is on May 29th.
Introduction: Looking Up with New Eyes
Ever looked up at the sky and just felt… something? Maybe wonder, maybe a little bit of awe? That’s kind of how I imagine the disciples felt watching Jesus ascend into heaven. It wasn't just goodbye; it was a moment packed with hope and a promise for what was to come. As we anticipate this significant event in the Christian calendar, it's worth noting that in 2025, the Feast of the Ascension falls on Thursday, May 29, 2025. This day serves as a special reminder of the hope and promise we'll explore.
The Moment He Left: More Than Just a Departure
Acts 1:9 tells us, "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight." It might seem like a simple ending to Jesus's time on earth, but it was so much more. It was the beginning of something new, for them and for us.
The Promise: He's Coming Back
Right after he ascended, the angels appeared and said in Acts 1:11, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven." That’s a promise, plain and simple. He’s coming back. That’s a huge reason for hope.
Source: Google Image
Hope in Action: What He Did Before Leaving
Think about everything Jesus did before he ascended. He healed the sick, he taught about love and forgiveness, he even conquered death. His ascension wasn't him leaving behind a mess; it was him stepping into his rightful place, having accomplished everything he needed to. It gives us hope that whatever we're facing, there's a God who has overcome even the biggest challenges.
Our Place in This: Connected to His Glory
Because Jesus ascended, he paved the way for us to be connected to God in a new way. Ephesians 2:6 says, "And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." It’s mind-blowing to think that we have a connection to that same glory Jesus stepped into. It fills us with hope for our own future.
Conclusion: A Reason to Look Forward
The Ascension isn't a sad ending; it's a powerful celebration of hope and promise. It reminds us that Jesus finished his work here, that he’s coming back for us, and that we’re connected to his glory in the meantime. So, when you look up at the sky, remember the Ascension. Remember the hope. Remember the promise. There’s so much to look forward to.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Ascension of Jesus?
It's the event where Jesus, after his resurrection, was taken up into heaven, as described in Acts 1:9.
What is the key promise associated with the Ascension?
The promise, mentioned by the angels, that Jesus will return in the same way he ascended.
How does the Ascension offer hope to believers?
It signifies Jesus's victory and his promise to return, as well as our spiritual connection to his glory.
What is the significance of the Feast of the Ascension, and when is it in 2025?
It's a day to remember and celebrate Jesus's ascension and the hope it brings. In 2025, it falls on Thursday, May 29th.
What should believers remember when they think about the Ascension?
They should remember the hope and the promise of Jesus's return and their connection to his glory.
What does Ephesians 2:6 say about believers in relation to Jesus's Ascension?
It states that believers have been raised up together with Christ and seated with him in heavenly places.