Today, we gather to reflect on the Ascension of Jesus Christ. This important event in Christianity is often overlooked, but it holds great significance for our faith. The Ascension is not just about Jesus physically leaving the earth, but rather it represents a new relationship between Jesus and the universe, allowing Him to apply His teachings and actions to all people.
I. The New Relationship Between Jesus and the Universe
The Ascension of Jesus isn't just about Him physically relocating to another part of the universe. It signifies a profound shift in His relationship with the entire universe. When Jesus ascended, He took His place on the "throne" and gained new authority to extend His teachings and actions to all people, everywhere. This pivotal event marks the beginning of Jesus' reign as the ultimate King of the universe.
In the Bible, Jesus is given titles like the "King of kings" and the "Lord of lords" (Revelation 19:16), which express His supreme authority and dominion over all earthly rulers and authorities. This change in His rulership establishes His kingship over not just the earth, but the entire universe. It calls us to recognize and serve Jesus as our Creator and Ruler, rather than merely regarding Him as a neighbor next door.
Reflecting on the words of C.S. Lewis, "The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God," we encounter the remarkable privilege bestowed upon us as human beings. Through our faith in Jesus Christ, we are offered the incredible opportunity to become children of God. Let us not forget that Jesus, who came from above, lived among us, died for our sins, and ascended into heaven, made this divine adoption possible. Embracing this truth should ignite within us a deep sense of devotion and gratitude, as we comprehend the immense love and sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf.
As we contemplate the Ascension and its implications for the relationship between Jesus and the universe, let us acknowledge Jesus as the ultimate King and Ruler, deserving of our wholehearted allegiance. Recognizing His incredible act of love and our status as God's adopted children, may we respond with a fervent desire to serve Jesus wholeheartedly, honoring Him in every aspect of our lives.
II. The Heightened Presence of Jesus
Before His ascension, Jesus was limited by His physical body and the constraints of time and space. He could only be physically present in one location at a time. However, through His ascension, Jesus transcended these limitations. He now exists in a glorified state, beyond the boundaries of our earthly existence.
As a result, Jesus is no longer limited to a specific location or time. He is with us always, everywhere we go. His presence is not bound by physical barriers or time constraints. This means that no matter where we are or what circumstances we face, Jesus is there with us.
In this new and powerful way, Jesus continues to guide us. He provides us with wisdom and direction, leading us on the path of righteousness. He comforts us in times of trouble and distress, offering us His peace and assurance. He empowers us with His Holy Spirit, equipping us to live according to His teachings and to fulfill His purposes in our lives.
"The ascension is the key to understanding Christ's continuing presence and ministry in the world today." - N.T. Wright
Matthew 28:20 - "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
By grasping these truths, we can strengthen our connection to God and experience His presence in a more profound way.
III. The Kingdom of God Becomes Real Through Jesus
The Ascension signifies the inauguration of the Kingdom of God. Through Jesus' exaltation, God's kingdom is actively breaking into the world, and believers are called to participate in the mission of advancing this kingdom.
The Gospels emphasize that Jesus came to reveal the true nature and character of God. In John 14:9, Jesus says, "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father." Through His life, teachings, and miracles, Jesus demonstrated God's love, grace, and power to the world. Timothy Keller eloquently states, "In Christ, the one true God has made Himself known to us. Through Him, we can know the heart and mind of God."
Keller also points out that "The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope." This profound message highlights the transformative power of Jesus in our lives.
The Bible teaches that Jesus will come again to judge the living and the dead and establish His kingdom on earth. This is the hope and promise that believers look forward to. N.T. Wright aptly remarks, "The Christian hope is not just that we will go to heaven, but that heaven will come to earth and that Jesus Christ will reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords."
All the tasks and actions Jesus demonstrated are to prove how seriously He values our relationship with Him. If He tells us that His death on the cross is for us, and if His ascension is for us, then it is. Jesus is in heaven, completing the kingdom for us. And we, on the other side, continue to praise and give glory to God who is at work even now.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ascension of Jesus Christ is a significant event in our faith. It represents a new relationship between Jesus and the universe, His heightened presence, and challenges us to live out our faith in a way that reflects Jesus' teachings and message. May we always remember the importance of the Ascension and strive to live in accordance with Jesus' will.
