THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD

9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “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 1:9-11 ESV)

Many are focused on special events this day, all with merit. 

It is Cinco de Mayo - observing the Mexican Army's victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. 

It is the National Day of Prayer - certainly a blessed practice for our nation’s welfare.

But for Christians, it is, above all else, the day we celebrate The Ascension of our Lord. The hymn writer captures the crucial importance of this day with these words:

1. On Christ’s ascension I now build 
The hope of my ascension:
This hope alone has always stilled
All doubt and apprehension;
For where the Head is, there as well 
I know His members are to dwell
When Christ will come and call them.

2. Since Christ returned to claim His throne,
Great gifts for me obtaining,
My heart will rest in Him alone,
No other rest remaining;
For where my treasure went before,
There all my thoughts will ever soar
To still there deepest yearning.

3. O grant, dear Lord, this grace to me,
Recalling Your ascension,
That I may serve You faithfully
In thanks for my redemption;
And then, when all my days will cease,
Let me depart in joy and peace
In answer to my pleading. Amen.
     (On Christ’s Ascension I Now Build, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #492)

A blessed Ascension Day to you and your family!

Pastor David Paape