Pam's Perambulation

Luke 24:44-53

⁴⁴ Jesus said to them, “While I was still with you, I told you that everything written about me in the Law of Moses, the Books of the Prophets, and in the Psalms had to happen.”

⁴⁵ Then he helped them understand the Scriptures. ⁴⁶ He told them:

The Scriptures say that the Messiah must suffer, then three days later he will rise from death. ⁴⁷ They also say that all people of every nation must be told in my name to turn to God, in order to be forgiven. So beginning in Jerusalem, ⁴⁸ you must tell everything that has happened. ⁴⁹ I will send you the one my Father has promised, but you must stay in the city until you are given power from heaven.

Jesus Returns to Heaven

⁵⁰ Jesus led his disciples out to Bethany, where he raised his hands and blessed them. ⁵¹ As he was doing this, he left and was taken up to heaven. ⁵² After his disciples had worshipped him,  they returned to Jerusalem and were very happy. ⁵³ They spent their time in the temple, praising God.

So this really is the end.

Jesus has died and risen again, but now he really has to go.  He blesses them and returns to heaven.

Jesus has left them, in body at least.  But God has not abandoned them.  They will experience him in a new way.  This is not the end, it is a new beginning.

There is work still to be done.  The disciples are to witness to all that Jesus has shown and told them.  They are to keep on sharing the message of repentance and forgiveness – the good news that Jesus brings life, hope, peace, a new start.

This is just the beginning of God’s work.  God is sending his power – just wait and see what he can do…

Lord,

we know that there is still work to do;

that you continue to call us

to share your message of repentance and forgiveness,

love and life,

peace and hope.

I pray now

for you to equip me.

~ by pamjw on May 17, 2012.

Posted in calling, Jesus
Tags: Ascension, equipping, Luke 24:44-53