Ascension
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope to which he has called you, just how rich his glorious inheritance among the saints is, and just how surpassingly great his power is for us who believe. Ephesians 1:18-19 (EHV)
“Powered by ____.” The website is “Powered by WordPress.” The computer is “Powered by Intel.” The Christian is powered by ________?
You could say, “I am powered by Christ,” or “grace,” or “the Gospel.” Maybe you should say, “I am powered by Jesus’ Ascension.” Why?
The Christian hope is to spend eternity in heaven. This hope is not wishful thinking that may or may not come true. This hope is certain. It is based on real, historical facts. Jesus entered our world at Christmas, paid for our sins on Calvary, and rose again on Easter morning. Jesus completed the circle when He returned to His throne at the Ascension. Together, these facts mean that your sins and mine have been paid for. The payment has been accepted. Ascension hope is certain hope.
Then, there is the inheritance. You can’t put a numeric value on this inheritance because nothing in our world compares. Numbers have not been invented to accurately describe the riches of our inheritance.
Finally, there is power. Sheer, immeasurable power belongs to our ascended Savior and is used for our benefit. There will never be a problem in your life that is greater than the power He has. Has the hospice team been called in? Medical treatments fail, but Jesus doesn’t. And won’t. His solution to our final problem on earth is to deliver us safely to heaven. His surpassingly great power is used “for us who believe.”
Certain hope, immeasurable riches, almighty protection, and blessing – they are life-changers, fruits of the Ascension Gospel that power our lives.
Lord, help me to better understand what Your Ascension means for my life. Enable me to trust You, no matter what problems may arise. Amen.