… as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight.

Acts 1:9

Years ago, I remember watching astronaut John Glenn go up into space. At the words “3-2-1 blast-off!” his rocket took off with a powerful thrust. The announcer said, “May God bless you, John Glenn!”

So, we may be surprised how quietly Jesus ascended into heaven: “As they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight.” Jesus’ “lift-off” may have been quiet, but it sure was powerful! He had concluded His earthly work and now He was sitting on God’s right hand in power, ruling over all things and the Church until He returns. He continues to pray for us with powerful prayers. “… we have an advocate … Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1). Ascension is a powerful time!

Paul Hoffman
Parma, OH

Dear Jesus, thank You for Your Word which empowers me to trust in Your ascension. Amen.

Reflect: Consider how Jesus’ disciples might have felt when He ascended.

Read: Acts 1:12-14 and 1 John 2:1