Arthur Gonçalves
May 19, 2023
We commemorate the blessed event known as Ascension Day—a momentous occasion that holds profound significance in the life of every believer. As Christians, we cherish this day and honor the exalted position of our Lord Jesus Christ as He ascended into heaven. Allow me to share with you the truth and the importance of this glorious event.
Ascension Day marks the fortieth day after our Lord's resurrection when He ascended to the right hand of God the Father, in full view of His disciples. It was a visible, tangible affirmation of His victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness. As we reflect on this day, we are reminded of the completion of Christ's earthly mission, His triumph over sin, and His eternal reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.
The significance of Ascension Day lies in the profound truths it reveals to us. First and foremost, it highlights the fulfillment of ancient prophecies concerning the Messiah. Our Savior, who was crucified for our sins and rose again on the third day, ascended to heaven just as the prophets had foretold. By ascending to the Father's right hand, Jesus demonstrated His authority and power, validating His claims to be the Son of God.
Moreover, Ascension Day signifies the completion of Christ's redemptive work on earth. Through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection, our Lord accomplished what no human effort could ever achieve—salvation and reconciliation between God and sinful humanity. By ascending to heaven, Jesus presented Himself as the spotless Lamb, our High Priest, interceding for us before the Father.
In this act of ascension, Christ also inaugurated His eternal reign as the exalted King. He now sits enthroned at the right hand of God, exercising sovereign authority over all creation. As orthodox Christians, we affirm that Jesus Christ is the head of the Church, and through His ascension, He bestows gifts upon His people and empowers us for the work of ministry. It is through His Spirit that we are equipped to bear witness to the gospel and participate in the advancement of His kingdom.
Furthermore, Ascension Day serves as a source of encouragement and hope for every believer. Our Lord's ascension assures us of His promise to prepare a place for us in heaven and to return one day to gather us unto Himself. As we await His glorious return, we find comfort in the knowledge that our Savior, who is seated at the right hand of God, is interceding on our behalf. He is our advocate and mediator, ensuring that nothing can separate us from His love.
"Our Lord's ascension assures us of His promise to prepare a place for us in heaven and to return one day to gather us unto Himself."
As we observe Ascension Day, let us be filled with awe and reverence for our Lord Jesus Christ. May this day remind us of His glorious triumph, His eternal reign, and His faithful intercession on our behalf. Let us be encouraged to boldly proclaim the gospel, knowing that our risen and ascended Lord is with us always, empowering us by His Spirit.
Beloved, may we fix our eyes on the exalted Christ, who has ascended to the Father's right hand. May we find assurance, strength, and hope in His glorious return. Let us live each day in the light of His ascension, knowing that our lives are secure in His hands and that He is faithful to fulfill all His promises.