The Ascension—Christ’s Reign and Our Hope

The Ascension: A Promise of Christ’s Return and Our Glorious Future

Have you ever found yourself eagerly anticipating the arrival of someone you love? That excited, restless energy that fills you as you wait to be reunited with a dear friend, family member, or romantic partner? This universal human experience offers us a glimpse into a far greater anticipation – the return of Jesus Christ.

As believers, we are called to live with an eager expectation of Christ’s second coming. This anticipation is rooted in the historical event of the Ascension, when Jesus, having completed His earthly ministry, was taken up into heaven before the eyes of His disciples. This wasn’t just a dramatic exit; it was a pivotal moment that set the stage for the birth of the Church and the ongoing work of Christ in heaven.

The book of Acts recounts this incredible scene:

“When he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight.” (Acts 1:9)

This wasn’t Jesus simply floating away like a helium balloon. Rather, it was a glimpse into the crossing of dimensions – from our physical reality into the ultimate spiritual reality of heaven. The cloud that enveloped Him was reminiscent of the cloud that led the Israelites in the wilderness, symbolizing God’s presence and glory.

As the disciples stood there, jaws likely dropped in astonishment, angels appeared with a profound message:

“Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11)

This promise of Christ’s return should stir our hearts. If we find ourselves unmoved or even fearful at the thought, we need to examine why. As followers of Jesus, we should long for His return with the same eagerness a bride awaits her groom.

Interestingly, much of Jesus’ language about His departure and return mirrors the customs of ancient Jewish weddings. In John 14, Jesus says:

“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” (John 14:2-3)

To Jewish ears, this would have immediately evoked the image of a groom preparing a home for his bride. After the betrothal, the groom would return to his father’s house to build an addition – a place for his future family. The bride would spend this time in preparation, purifying herself and remaining ready, for the groom could return at any moment to bring her to the wedding feast.

In the same way, Jesus has ascended to prepare a place for us. He’s sent us the gift of the Holy Spirit to empower and purify us as we await His return. And one day, at a time known only to the Father, He will return for His bride – the Church.

This anticipation of Christ’s return isn’t meant to make us passive. On the contrary, it should fuel our mission. Before His ascension, Jesus gave His followers a clear mandate:

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

This commission mirrors the expansion of God’s kingdom throughout history. Just as God established His people at Mount Sinai, giving them the law and calling them to be a light to the nations, so too has He established the Church through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. We are now called to be His witnesses, spreading the good news of salvation to the ends of the earth.

The message we carry is one of unparalleled hope. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has conquered sin and death. He offers forgiveness and reconciliation with God to all who put their faith in Him. This isn’t based on our own merit or good works, but solely on what Christ has accomplished on our behalf.

As we live in this “in-between” time – between Christ’s ascension and His promised return – we’re called to a life of active waiting. We should be growing in holiness, serving others, and sharing the gospel. The Holy Spirit empowers us for this mission, reminding us of Jesus’ teachings and convicting us of sin.

It’s easy in our modern world to become skeptical about Christ’s return. Some even within the Church have abandoned this hope. But we must remember that Jesus has a 100% track record of fulfilling His promises. The Old Testament prophecies about His first coming were fulfilled with pinpoint accuracy. We can trust that His promises about His return are equally reliable.

For those who know Christ, His return should fill us with joyful anticipation. We will finally see our Savior face to face, the One who loved us enough to die for us. We’ll experience the fullness of His presence and the perfection of His kingdom.

If you don’t yet know Jesus, understand that there is no one who loves you more. He paid the ultimate price to offer you forgiveness and a relationship with God. He’s preparing a place for all who put their trust in Him.

As we reflect on the ascension and the promise of Christ’s return, let’s allow these truths to stir our hearts. May we live with eager expectation, growing in holiness, and sharing the hope we have with a world in desperate need. Let’s pray for the Holy Spirit to fill us afresh, removing any fear or doubt, and kindling within us a burning desire to see our Savior’s face.

For the Christian, our ultimate hope isn’t found in the treasures or pleasures of this world. Our hearts long for a place we’ve never seen – the presence of our Lord. May we live each day in light of that glorious future, eagerly awaiting the moment when faith becomes sight and we are united with Christ forever.

Devotional

A 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on The Ascension—Christ’s Reign and Our Hope