“When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. 51 While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. 52 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.” Luke 24.50-53
Talk about a boost! The resurrection of Jesus was like a rocket booster launching the gospel into the world—along, of course, with the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit not only provided energy but also unified the message among believers, which we will read about in the Book of Acts.
Although the Gospels offer slightly different accounts of Jesus’ return—the days he spent with his followers, the miracles he performed, and the messages he shared (similar in substance yet emphasizing different points)—the main message remains the same. The church of Christ, born with his resurrection, will be propelled by the Spirit.
Reflect upon this: Jesus had died and rose again. Hope had been lost and now is found. The world had appeared to collapse in on itself, but Jesus restores everything to greatness and grace. He appears to his disciples, and after some time together, he disappears near Bethany (ascending into heaven). Their response is the spark: they worship Christ as God and return to the Temple in Jerusalem—their center of worship—filled with excitement beyond belief.
And they remained there, the text tells us, praising God. Shortly after, as we read in Acts, they would be filled with the Spirit and sent across the globe to bear witness to the message of Jesus: preaching repentance for the forgiveness of sins, peace with God, and life everlasting.
This is how the book of Luke ends—Jesus ascending, joy invading, the church beginning. And that which began anew so many years ago continues today. We get to enjoy his presence and be a part of his mission to save the world.
I count it a joy to do so. A joy to be included in this incredible act of grace on God’s part—that he would provide his Son as a sacrifice and that all who believe would be saved. Glory to God. Amen.
“O Lord God, you are good and faithful. Thank you for allowing us to walk in your ways and to follow your commands. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill us with your power and love that we might have joy and praise your name. I love you, Lord, and glorify you. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen.