Ascension Reflection

 

He’ll Be Back!

Today is an important day on the church calendar. Today is Ascension Day. It’s been 40 days since we celebrated Easter. On Ascension Day we remember and recall the last five words Jesus spoke while on this earth. He said: “I am with you always!” 

This is not a wish. This is a reality we know by faith. And because Jesus is always with us we know that we are never alone. God is always with us today. Tomorrow. And forever. 

We can joyfully proclaim the news of Christ. Jesus promised to return one day. He assures us that He would send comfort and hope. Today our earthly job is to share the love of God with one another.

Law/Gospel Theme:  After the Resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples several times. He did this  to show us who He was as the risen Son of God. 

The appearances of Jesus also gave encouragement and peace reminding us of how to live out our lives. 

As we consider the Ascension, we can rejoice in the conclusion of the earthly ministry of Jesus and get ready to share the news of the Gospel.    

Prayer: Lord Jesus King of Glory Lord of Hosts uplifted in triumph far above the heavens, leave us not without consolation but sent us the Spirit of truth whom you have promise of the Father. 

Hymn:  55 Jesus Loves Me 

Confession/Absolution:

LORD - we pray to you also for the forgiveness of our sins. Have mercy upon us, most merciful Father. 

In Your compassion forgive us our sins. Known and unknown. Things done. And left undone. And so uphold us by Your Spirit. That we may live and serve you in newness of life. To the honor and glory of Your Name. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on you. Forgive you all your sins. Through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

And may He strengthen you in all goodness. And by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.

Luke 24:44-53

44 Jesus said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.”

45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

The Ascension of Jesus

50 When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. 51 While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. 52 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.

Acts 1:1-11

Jesus Taken Up Into Heaven

1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen.

3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with[a] water, but in a few days you will be baptized with[b] the Holy Spirit.”

6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”

7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Hymn: 57 Just As I Am

Today we are looking at what happened when Jesus ascended into Heaven. Have you ever heard the word “ascend”? It means something goes up, like an elevator or a person going upstairs. In our lesson today, we are looking at the last time Jesus was on earth. 

We’ve been talking about how He showed up to His disciples a few times after His resurrection. He spoke with them and gave them encouraging words.

Well, He had one final special meeting with them…Jesus took His disciples out of the town a little ways, and He reminded them again of who He was, and how He suffered and died and came back to life again to fulfill the prophecies. 

He told His friends that He was going to send them an exciting present, and that they should wait for that present to get an amazing sort of power…then He gave them a blessing, and then do you know what happened? 

Jesus floated up, ascending into the sky. But He didn’t come back down. 

The disciples were left open-mouthed, starting into the sky and wondering when He would return. 

An angel let them know that Jesus would be coming back, though they didn’t realize it would take such a long time.

In the meantime, the Lord has give us a job to do. We can tell others about Jesus and His love. We can tell others that Jesus was born. That He lived the perfect life. That He suffered, died, and rose again. We can tell others that Jesus ascended into heaven. And soon and very soon we shall see Him again. 

The disciples were excited about what Jesus had said. They went to Jerusalem.  Giving praise to God and telling people about what they had seen. 

They were all stirred up with energy and excitement. How do you think you might have felt if you saw Jesus go up into the clouds like that??

It might have been shocking or confusing or exciting. One thing we can know is that we should be eager to share God’s love and good news with one another. And do you want to know something else? 

This story about ascending has a sequel! Jesus told the disciples to wait for a special power that would be sent. Ten days later on the day of Pentecost the disciples went into all the world sharing the Good News of Jesus. And this Good News is our story to share with others each and every day.  

Prayer: Thank you, LORD for your love and care. Thank you for who you are. Thank you for resurrection joy. Help us to be excited about your story. So we can share the good news with others.

As the Lord has given us one another and we give thanks for God’s grace and mercy as we offer prayers on this day.

As the Lord has given us neighbors, friends, families, and coworkers to share the joys and burdens of this life. We thank you Lord, for the privilege of loving others.

As the Lord has given us a promise that where He goes, He will prepare a place for us. 

We thank you Lord for the gift of life and for giving us to one another for safekeeping. Bring us home when it is time. Lord in your grace, hear our prayer.

Hymn: 37 He’s Got The Whole World in His Hands

Ascension Image copyright Ed Riojas Higher Things

Ascension

Almighty God, the giver of all that is good, by Your holy inspiration grant that we may think those things that are right and by Your merciful guiding accomplish them through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. 

Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House

Google images

The Ascension of our Lord

Almighty God, as Your only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, ascended into heaven, so may we also ascend in heart and mind and continually dwell there with Him, who lives and rules with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen

Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.

The Ascension   © Google Images

Ascension

Ascension
Acts 1:8-11
Implications concerning the Ascension

40 days after the Resurrection. 10 days before Pentecost. The church gathers to celebrate one of the earliest church holidays – the Ascension of our Lord. What does the ascension mean for us today in the 21st Century - living in the year of our Lord 2017? Let’s consider the words of the angels as they spoke to the 1st century believers.

Ascension marks the fact that Jesus’ work on earth is finished. Today marks the fact that Jesus' mission is complete. Yet, there is work for the members of His body to do- We review Jesus words, “And you will receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You shall be witnesses of Me in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria- even to the uttermost parts of the earth.” Jesus, by these words, reminds us that we shall receive:

1. The Power: “But ye shall receive power…”

A. Jesus has not let us weak- He has not left us powerless.  To the contrary. The Lord has given power and strength to His church. He equips us to work for Him as His representatives. You are an ambassador for Christ. Armed with His credentials. 

B. The places where we are given this power are found specifically in His Word which is preached, taught, read and shared. It is found specifically in His gifts; the blessed Sacraments. It is found specifically in the message of Christ’s forgiveness. 

Transition: There is power there are also provisions the Lord has for His people.

2. The Provision: “After that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…”

A. God has provided you with His Spirit. Some believe that in the Ascension Jesus has left us. These believe that there is somehow a sense of separation or distance between Christ and His Church. They reason, that the Church is on earth and Christ is in heaven so somehow Christ has distanced Himself from His people.  Not so! For He has sent us His Holy Spirit.

B. For what is the role of the Holy Spirit? He calls, gathers, enlightens sanctifies and keeps us in the one true faith. The Holy Spirit has called you by the Gospel, gathered you into His church, enlightened you with His gifts, makes you perfect, blameless and holy and will continue to keep you faithful to Him and to the Christian faith.  This is the provision He has given to you.

Transition: There is power given, there is the provisions of the Holy Spirit. There is also the prospect of being witnesses for Christ.

3. The Prospect: “And ye shall be witnesses unto me…” 

A. The early Christians said repeatedly; “We are witnesses of these things” All the disciples and believers spoke concerning what he Savior had done. The result? Whole families were brought into the family of faith as the Lord was adding them those that were being saved. 

B. You too are witnesses- You too tell the wonderful news concerning Jesus Christ. This is the only way the Church of Jesus Christ grows- one Christian at a time. Yet it is always the Holy Spirit who adds the increase.

Transition: Yet where shall we go? The Holy Spirit has also provided the place.  

4. The Places: “In Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

A. It’s where God has planted you. For the early Christians of the 1st Century it started in Jerusalem, then Judea, it grew into Samaria- then finally to the uttermost parts of the earth.

B. For us, living in the 21st Century? It starts at Friedheim, then it expands into Preble Township, it grows into Northeast Indiana. And with respect to the uttermost parts of the earth. It’s getting so much easier to reach so many. The nations are literally coming across our borders. Residents from foreign lands continue to make their home here in our area. May the Lord give us eyes to see them!

There are also the people God places in your life. People, whom you interact with; either at home, at school, in the greater community. This is your mission field.

C. We are becoming a “sending congregation.” This month we have celebrated with many of our students who have graduated from college. Many of them will continue their education at institutions even further away from home. Some will soon begin their careers; in urban centers, a greater distance from here. Literally they are traveling to the ends of the earth. Armed with the Gospel, they become witnesses of the Savior’s mercy and grace.

  

 The 1st Century directive of reaching out continues to be your directive. God the Holy Spirit does all of the work from front to back. He simply uses you to be His instrument. The Holy Spirit has provided the power, the provision, the prospect, the place. Thanks be to God. He has done it all. Even so come Lord Jesus, come even today!

Words – 825

Passive Sentences –4%
Readability – 71.8
Reading Level -5.9

Ascension

Ascension

Luke 24:44-53

An Ascension Message of Joy

May 5, 2016

Almighty God, as Your only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, ascended into the heavens, so may we also ascend in heart and mind and continually dwell there with him, who lives, and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

1.       There is joy in the fulfillment of God’s prophesies in the Old Testament.

A.      The Messianic prophesies of the Old Testament are fulfilled.

B.      “It was necessary.”

C.      Jesus opens the minds of the disciples to understand – here merely an intellectual comprehension.

2.       There is joy in the call to purpose and significant service.

A.      “You will be witnesses of these things.”

1.       They witnessed the “what” and “why” of the suffering, dying, and rising again of Christ.

2.       They were to carry on the work of Christ. This command is in the constant present. Until Christ’s coming again.

3.       They were to begin in Jerusalem and go out into the entire world.

B.      They proclaimed repentance and forgiveness in His name.

1.       True repentance involves two things.

a.       First, come sorrow and contrition.

b.      Then follows faith, which trusts the promise of God’s forgiveness.

2.       It is proclaimed “in His name.”

C.      The Holy Spirit would empower them.

3.       There is joy in the blessing that found response in joyful worship.

A.      They receive the blessing of Christ, not the least of which was the promise of His abiding presence. (see Matthew 28:20)

B.      Their worship in the temple anticipates their joy of worship in heaven. (see John  14:1-6)

The Ascension joy is also available to us in the same was and on the same terms. God has promised, called, and blessed us. We in that blessing respond in joyful service and worship, until in Christ’s coming gain we are taken “so that where He is we may be also” – in heaven, where we shall serve and worship our God in the fullness of joy that knows no end!

____________

Words- 325

Passive Sentences –

Readability –75%

Reading Level -6.2 

Ascension

Ascension

Luke 24:44-53

An Ascension Message of Joy

May 5, 2016

Almighty God, as Your only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, ascended into the heavens, so may we also ascend in heart and mind and continually dwell there with him, who lives, and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Image of the Ascension: Schnorr von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS for personal and congregational use

Ascension

Ascension

14 May 2015

Luke 24:44-53

Almighty God, as Your only begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, ascended into the heavens, so may we also ascend in heart and mind and continually dwell there with Him, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever.

Today is Ascension Day – today we remember – that the resurrected Jesus was taken up to heaven. In His resurrected body. In the presence of eleven of His disciples. Forty days after the resurrection.

The Ascension is one of the chief festivals of the Church Year. The Ascension is one of the six major milestones in the life of Jesus – His birth. His Baptism. His Transfiguration. His crucifixion. His resurrection.

The Ascension is a big day. The Ascension is professed in both the Nicene and Apostles’ Creed. The Ascension teaches that Jesus humanity was taken into heaven. The same Jesus who with the same body in which He suffered went into heaven. He will return. In the same way.  On the last great day. To judge men and angels at the end of the world.

Jesus might be visibly gone. Still He is physically present.  He remembers us. As He feeds us with His Word and Sacrament. He also intercedes for you. On your behalf. Standing next to you. He calls out to the Father. To bless and protect you.  

What is the significance of the Ascension?

1.       Jesus, the only begotten Son, has ascended into the heavens.

2.       We too ascend in heart and mind,

3.       So we will continually dwell there with Him.

Jesus, the only begotten Son, has ascended into heaven. 

In a real way, the Ascension is Luke’s Great Commission. This is why Jesus is ascending. He will not return until He goes back to the Father. Back to His seat of power. There He will sit –enthroned in glory.

As He leads them out, He raises His hands to bless them.  This was the work of the High Priest. The Lord commanded Aaron to bless the people. As your high priest, Jesus blesses you daily.

How does Jesus bless you today? The source of blessing are Jesus pierced hands. You are blessed because Jesus suffered, was crucified, has risen and now sits in glory. He may be set apart from you. But really, He isn’t. He is visibly gone. He remains physically present – in His Word, in His Sacraments, in His promise of Absolution. Real places, with real results. You find Him not where the world will be hunting. He is present in those places He has promised.

With Jesus, we ascend in heart and mind.

Just like those fist witnesses –“He opened their minds…to understand the writings.”  Preaching and teaching opened their minds. There must be an understanding of the Scriptures. Not just the heart but of the mind. A growing up in knowledge. In a right dividing of Jesus’ law and gospel.

Jesus’ command is simple. “Repentance unto forgiveness is to be proclaimed beginning at Jerusalem.” Jerusalem wass called, “the city of peace.”  It was the place of Jesus death. It was the place where the temple was the dwelling place of God.

Jesus is now the new Temple. Luke begins His gospel with Jesus in the temple. He concludes His gospel with Jesus as the temple, the dwelling of God. The city of peace, the source of God’s peace, is found now in Jesus as He brings you His gifts – forgiveness, life, salvation.

So we will continually dwell there with Him.

Jesus reminds us, “You are witnesses of these things.” You are a witness. Of Jesus’ death and resurrection.  Paul, as an apostle, saw the living Jesus. “These things” Jesus death and resurrection. They were witnesses and martyrs, they saw, they preached, they died.

“They returned to the city of peace with great joy.” It was an occasion of great joy. The ascension was the opposite reaction to the resurrection. In the resurrection, the disciples really didn’t get it. They asked themselves, “What’s next?” They gathered behind locked doors. In fear. In fear of the authorities. In fear of what would happened next.

After the Ascension, they went back to the public square. They continued daily in the temple blessing God. Heaven had broken into earth. They knew Jesus was with them. And He is with you too – this very night. He might be visibly gone yet He remains physically present. He remembers you. As He feeds you. He intercedes on your behalf. Calling out, next to you.

Words-764

Passive Sentences –13%

Readability –77%

Reading level -4.4

Ascension

 17 May 2012
Ephesians 1:16-23

God is a god of power, manifested in the creation of the world and in His mighty acts in the Old Testament. In our text, St. Paul connects two other events with the power of God – the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ and the new life of the Christian. Here we see God’s power at work.

1.       In Christ’s resurrection and ascension.

A.      God raised Christ (he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms Ephesians 1:20)

1.       To show His acceptance of the redemptive work of Christ (He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification Romans 4:25; But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. Acts 2:24)

2.       As the first-fruits of those asleep (But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep 1 Corinthians 15:20)

B.      God set Christ at His own right hand (Ephesians 1:20)

1.       A place of honor and power above every power ( 2.       He put all things under His feet; Christ is conqueror over sin, death, and the devil (1 Corinthians 15:55-57)

3.       He is Head over all things to the Church (And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church Ephesians 1:22)

a.        Christ dwells in each Christian, and each Christians in Him (far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. Ephesians 1:21)

b.      He intercedes for us (Therefore he is able to save completely^[a] those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. Hebrews 7:25)

c.       He rules all things in the interest of His church (And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church Ephesians 1:22)

2.       In the new life of the Christian.

A.      The Ephesians were manifesting the new life in faith and love. (For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people Ephesians 1:15)

B.      Paul prays for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation (Sanctify them by^[a] the truth; your word is truth. John 17:17)

1.       That you may know Christ (  and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in^[a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.  I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,  Philippians 3:8-10)

2.       That you may know the hope of His calling (I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, Ephesians 1:18)

3.       That you may know the riches of the glory of His inheritance (I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, Ephesians 1:18)

God is a God of power. How comforting to our faith that God’s power raised Christ and gave Him glory. Through the Word and Sacraments God’s Spirit continues to comfort us with Christ and our Christian hope.

Ascension

The Ascension of our Lord marks the ending as well as a beginning. The earthly ministry of Jesus has been accomplished. Now, as recorded in the closing words of Luke's gospel, Jesus gave final instructions to His disciples. Then He ascended on high to the position of eternal glory that he, the Son of God, had left in order to be our Redeemer. But this ending was truly a beginning. For now He would bestow power on His faithful people. This night let us consider the power for ending as well as beginning.

[1] We end and begin with the powerful Word of our Savior.

A. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Word.

1. The sweep of salvation history covers "everything written about Me in the Law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms" (Luke 24:44). In Christ all things are completed.

2. Luke's gospel is a record of that fulfillment. It started with the prediction that at just the right time Christ would come into the world. Luke outlines for us how Christ finds His way all the way back to the people of promise in the genealogy of Jesus. Luke records for us Jesus' birth, his trip to the temple to be circumcised and then at the age of twelve.

We have recorded for us his life and ministry which culminated in Jesus' death and resurrection. During these past forty days we too have been witnesses of His resurrection...Luke has lead us to the conclusion that this Jesus is none other than the very Son of God, the chosen One of the Father.

B. Jesus reveals Himself as the Center of the Word.

1. In our text we are reminded that Jesus "opened their minds to understand the Scriptures" (v. 45). What this simply means is that without Jesus Christ the Word becomes a mere record of ancient history. But with His revelation which comes through the Word we know Jesus to be the way the truth and the life.

2. Jesus' death and resurrection are the key that opens up the Word. In the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ we have come to know that He holds for us the key which opens the gate which leads to eternal life.

C. This fulfilled, Christ-centered Word must be proclaimed in the world.

1. The proclamation is repentance and forgiveness in Jesus' Holy Name.

2. It is proclaimed to all people and all nations for God desires all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

Transition: Scripture's purpose is not a dead end. It is a new beginning, for it has power through this proclamation of Jesus' suffering, death, resurrection and ascension to bring repentance, forgiveness and life to all who believe. This is the new beginnings which Christ brings to us this day.

[2] We end and begin with the power of the Holy Spirit.

A. We are called to be His witnesses.

1. We witness to what the disciples had seen in Christ. In spirit we were there as Jesus suffered, was crucified, died and was buried. We too have seen His resurrected from the dead.

2. He too have witnessed to what we by faith have seen ourselves. The resurrection of Jesus Christ has the power to change lives. Every person who passed by the open tomb of the resurrected Christ had their lives changed. Before the resurrection they were fearful and doubting. But after the resurrection their lives were changed as the witnessed Jesus alive from the dead.

B. But wait! The Power will come!

1. On the day of Pentecost the Savior would "clothe" the disciples with the power of the Holy Spirit. Having received power from on high they began in Jerusalem and were His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the rest of the world.

2. We too, begin by the power of the Spirit to witness to Jesus Christ. As we have received the power of the spirit in baptism we go out into the world witnessing of what Christ has done for us in our lives as well.

Transition: A witness is one who cannot but speak and live the endings and beginnings that God, by grace, has bestowed upon His people. As we begin, we receive the living Christ.

[3] We end and begin under Christ's powerful blessing.

A. The ending point of Jesus' earthly ministry was His glorious Ascension.

1. Jesus ascended to heaven to receive all glory and honor from God the Father.

2. He ascended to bless His Christ as its living, present Head as He comes to us, His children through Word and Sacrament.

B. We are blessed with joy.

1. The disciples did not mourn Jesus' leaving; the rejoiced for they knew that He was returning back to the Father.

2. This is far different from Memorial Day sadness and helplessness when we remember those who are no more. Christ continues to be alive and with us. We might not see Him but He remains with us. As He has promised "Lo, I am with you always, even 'till the end of the age" (Matthew 28:28)

3. He who rose is with us this night. He will return at His second Advent to take us to be where He now lives and rules at the right hand of the Father.

So, filled with joy, the disciples waited and "were continually in the temple" (v. 53). We too await the Lord's return not with sadness but with joy, not in weakness but in His power and strength. The ascension is the ending that brought new beginnings. It is power like that of our baptism. Our earthly lives will end one day but will also begin again with joy our entrance into life eternal.

Ascension

The disciples of Jesus were given a wonderful word of promise from Jesus. The Holy Spirit would come with His abiding presence and help. Even though Jesus’ visible presence has been removed by His ascension, invisibly Jesus continues to be with and among us. This brings us both peace and joy.

1. There is joy in the fulfillment of God’s prophesies in the Old Testament.

A. The Messianic prophesies of the Old Testament are fulfilled.

1. “It stands written” is the formula introducing God’s unalterable agreement.

2. The whole Old Testament bears witness to Christ.

B. “It was necessary.”

1. The Scriptures must be fulfilled.

2. “It pleased God to bruise Him” was God’s decree about Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection.

3. Jesus opens the minds of the disciples to understand – here merelyh as intellectual comprehension.

2. There is joy in the call to purpose and significant service.

A. “You will be witnesses of these things.”

1. They witnessed the “what” and the “why” of the suffering, dying and rising again of
Christ.

2. They were to carry on the work of Christ (this command is in the “constant present”) until Christ’s coming again.

3. They were to begin in Jerusalem and go out into all the world.

B. They proclaimed repentance and forgiveness in His name.

1. True repentance involves two things.
a. First come sorrow and contrition.
b. Then follows faith, which trusts the promise of God’s forgiveness.

2. It is proclaimed “in His name”
a. Today is the 200th Birthday of F. C. D. Wyneken - the Father of American missions.
b. The mission zeal which drove him is our legacy as we continue to share Christ proclaiming Christ and His name.

3. There is joy in the blessing that found response in joyful worship.

A. They receive the blessing of Christ, not the least of which was the promise of His abiding presence. “I am with you always” – Matthew 28:20

B. Their worship in the temple anticipates their joy of worship in heaven.

The Ascension joy is also available to us in the same way and on the same terms. God has promised, called, and blessed us. We in that blessing respond in joyful service and worship until in Christ’s coming again we are taken “so that where He is we may be also” – in heaven where we shall serve and worship our God in the fullness of joy that knows no end.

Ascension

Ascension

May 17, 2007

Acts 1:8

Preparation to Witness

Introduction: Today is one of the chief feast days in the life and history of the church. What does this day signify? What is so important concerning this day- this Feast of the Ascension of our Lord?  Ascension marks the fact that Jesus’ work on earth is complete. Today marks the fact that Jesus' mission is complete. Yet, there is work for the members of His body to do- We review Jesus words, “And you will receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you. You shall be witnesses of Me in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria- even to the uttermost parts of the earth. Jesus by these words reminds us that we shall receive:

The Power: “But ye shall receive power…”

Jesus has not let us weak- He has not left us powerless.  To the contrary, The Lord has given power and strength to His church. He equips us to work for Him as His representatives.

The places where we are given this power are found specifically in His Word which is preached, taught, read and shared. It is found specifically in His blessed Sacraments. It is found specifically in the message of Christ’s forgiveness. 

Transition: There is power there are also provisions the Lord has for His people.

The Provision: “After that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…”

God has provided you with His Spirit. Some believe that in the Ascension Jesus has left us. These believe that there is somehow a sense of separation or distance between Christ and His Church. They reason that the Church is on earth and Christ is in heaven so somehow Christ has distanced Himself from His people.  Not so! For He has sent us His Holy Spirit.

For what is the role of the Holy Spirit? He calls, gathers, enlightens sanctifies and keeps us in the one true faith. Luther would remind us that the Holy Spirit has called you by the Gospel, gathered you into His church, enlightened you with His gifts, makes you perfect, blameless and holy and will continue to keep you faithful to Him and to the Christian faith.  This is the provision He has given to you.

Transition: There is power given, there is provision of the Holy Spirit. There is also the prospect of being witnesses for Christ.

The Prospect: “And ye shall be witnesses unto me…” 

The early Christians said repeatedly; “We are witnesses of these things” All the disciples and believers spoke concerning what he Savior had done. The result? Whole families were brought into the family as the Lord was adding them those that were being saved. 

You too are witnesses- You too tell the wonderful news concerning Jesus Christ. This is the only way the Church of Jesus Christ grows- one Christian at a time. Yet it is always the Holy Spirit who adds the increase.

Transition: Yet where shall we go? The Holy Spirit has also provided the place.  

The Places: “In Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

It’s where God has planted you. For the early Christians of the 1st Century it started in Jerusalem, then Judea, it grew into Samaria- then finally to the uttermost parts of the earth.

For us, living in the 21st Century? It starts sat Friedheim, then it expands into Preble Township, it grows into Northeast Indiana. And with respect to the uttermost parts of the earth. It’s getting so much easier to reach so many. The nations are literally coming to our borders. Residents from foreign lands continue to make their home here in our area. These are also the people God places in your life. This is your mission field.

Conclusion: The 1st Century directive of reaching out continues to be our directive. God the Holy Spirit does all of the work from front to back. He simply uses us to be His instrument. The Holy Spirit has provided the power, the provision, the prospect, the place. Thanks be to God. He has done it all.

Ascension

Ascension

May 25, 2006

Acts 1:11

Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

INTRODUCTION: 40 days after the Resurrection and 10 days before Pentecost the church gathers to celebrate one of the earliest church holidays – the Ascension of our Lord. What does the ascension mean for us today in the 21st Century - living in the year of our Lord 2006? Let’s consider the words of the angels as they spoke to the 1st century believers.

1. Jesus Has Ascended

The Jesus whom the disciples had known now had a heavenly existence (cf. the double use of the phrase "into heaven").

2. He will return

The same Jesus they had known would return also enveloped in the cloud of the divine presence and glory (cf. Matthew 24:30; 26:64; Mark 13:26; 14:62; Luke 21:27).

CONCLUSION: Even so come Lord Jesus, come even today!

Ascension

Ascension Day

May 20, 2004

Ephesians 1:16-23

The coming of God

INTRODUCTION: The ascension of Jesus commemorates Jesus’ visible departure from earth and return to heaven. But despite His physical absence He has not left us.  It is true, as He Himself observed, that He has finished the saving work He came to earth to do as He cried from the bloody cross “It is finished!”

But this does not mean that God is finished with us. Jesus Himself once informed His disciples that His leave –taking for heaven would be a signal for the Holy Spirit to come to them, a coming we have witnessed continually ever since the first Pentecost. Today’s Epistle is one more assurance that Jesus ascension is the signal not only for the Holy Spirit come to us but also for God the father and even Jesus Himself to come to us in unexpected ways.

I.                    The Holy Spirit comes to us

A.         God the Father sends Him “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ...may give to you the Spirit of wisdom,” V.17

B.          The Holy Spirit comes to us through the Gospel “revelation, so that you may know Him better,” (v.17)

C.         He enlightens our understanding through that Gospel “I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints” (18)

D.         As a result we are strengthened in our hope and longing for heaven. “...and His incomparable great power for us who believe” (19)

II.                 God the Father comes to us.

A.       We have already experienced His power in the faith he has given us. (v.19)

B.        We are promised even more of His power “his incomparably great power”, the same powers of God that exalted Christ in His resurrection and ascension.

C.       As a matter of fact, we receive more than His power – we receive Him. Jesus said in John 14:23 “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.”

III.               Jesus comes to us.

A.        He is over all things, yet, he is for the sake of, and for the benefit of, the church “for the church,” (v.22)

B.         He fills all things; yet, the church completes His fullness just as a body completes the head to the body. To paraphrase vv.22-23 “In that body lives fully the One who fills the while wide universe.”

CONCLUSION: This is the destiny of man to be with God. Ultimately it is the Son of Man, Jesus Christ our Ascended Lord who rules over everything. He is over all things and in Him we live and reign.

Ascension

The Feast of the Lord’s Ascension

May 29, 2003

Luke 24:44-53

INTRODUCTION:  Picture in your mind the glorious Ascension of Jesus Christ. As He ascends into heaven in the presence of His disciples the conquering Savior lifts His hands to bless us. What would that say to us this night?

I.        Christ’s uplifted hands were nail-marked hands, which testified to His having suffered as the Scriptures had predicted. Jesus says in Vs. 46 of our text: “Thus it was written, that the Christ should suffer and rise again from the dead on the third day” All of the Scriptures have been fulfilled. Jesus has successfully completed every prophecy.

A.     The Scriptures make it clear that Christ suffered for our sins. 1 Peter 2:24 reminds us: “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross that we might die to sin and live unto righteousness for by His stripes we are healed.” One righteous man completing one righteous and unselfish act completed your redemption in time and space.

B.     The Scriptures make it clear that He and He alone was able to suffer sin’s punishment for us. 1 Peter 1:18-19 remind us: “knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver and gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as a lamb, unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.”   Christ has accounted for all sin. There is not one sin left. He is the Lamb of God, which takes away the sins of the world. He is the world’s redeemer. He is our Savior and King.  

C.     Peter will say again in 1 Peter 3:18: “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, in order that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but being made alive in the spirit...” When Christ died all sin died. When He arose triumphantly from the grave He gave us a guarantee of our eternal destiny. He now has gone to prepare a place for us. The glorious Ascension of Jesus Christ assures us that we have a destiny with Christ in glory.

Transition:  Jesus’ hands are lifted – lifted to bless us, lifted to remind us that we are the redeemed children of God.

II.     The nail scared hands of Jesus, lifted up tell us that He, the risen Lord, as made an effective sacrifice for sin.

A.     On the basis of His sacrifice and glorious resurrection the forgiveness of sins can now be proclaimed to all. In our text Jesus remind us in Vs. 47: ”...and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all the nations – beginning from Jerusalem” 

The New Testament church started in Jerusalem but they didn’t remain there. They went into Judea, Samaria and to the utter most regions of the earth proclaiming a simple message of Christ’s resurrection. Yet, it was a powerful message for it literally turned the world upside down.

B.     As you and I daily confess our sins, we can be sure that His sacrifice will cleans us from all sin. This is what we read in 1 John 1:7: “...but if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son, cleanses us from all sin.” This is a message the world still needs to hear. This is a message you and I need to hear each and every day. The blood of Jesus Christ has cleansed us from all sin.

CONCLUSION:  The Ascended Lord has accomplished for us the forgiveness of sins, life and salvation. In Jesus Christ all sin is forgiven period! In Jesus Christ all is well, all is well.  

Ascension

Ascension

May 24, 2001

Matthew 28:20

"The Final Five"

The Final 5 Words of Christ. They are some of the most remarkable words ever recorded in sacred Scripture. They speak to us concerning the Savior's promises to us. They speak to us concerning our destiny. Consider them the last five words, which the Savior spoke to humans before He left this earth…"I am with you always!"

1.      I am with you

Jesus is always with you; He's by your side, He abides to guide and lead you. Many a friend may leave and desert us. Many may abandon us when we need them the most. Not so with the Savior He's always there. He is near to you. He has made His dwelling place in your heart. Many a friend may say "I'm just a phone call away…Jesus says "I'm but a breath away!"

You are never alone!  "I'm abandoned by God and by men," a man once cried out on his deathbed having realized that he had rejected everything spiritual in his life. Not so with those who have a relationship with Christ. You are never alone. No matter where you go; you won't go it alone. The Savior is near to you, promising never to abandon you, promising to never let you out of His sight. 

What a comfort. What an encouragement!

2.      Always! He's with you always!

To be separated from God is hell. Jesus’ cry from the cross was His agony of being "abandoned by God and by man" He cried from the cross: "My God my God…" (Ps.22)  He offered up those cries so that you and I would never have to experience the rejection, which comes from being abandoned by God. Always and forever you are with the Lord.  Always and forever you are in the safe and caring hand of your Lord and your Redeemer. What a comfort to know that you are in His safe and caring hand.

Forever Jesus is by your side. That relationship which the Savior began with you started at your baptism where you were clothed with Christ. It has continued on these many years up to this very hour. Jesus has forever bound Himself to you.  What's more He has set a plan by which you will spend eternity with Him.  How long is eternity? It's without end. It goes on forever. For the rest of your days you will be forever with the Lord.

CONCLUSION:  Many a person will be remembered for the last words they spoke before they left this earth. Jesus' words, spoken on the day of His Ascension will live on until He returns. Look at the back of your hand. There you have five fingers. Remember His promise spoken to you every single time you look at the back of your hands. Count the blessings one by one; "I am with you always!" Amen!

Ascension

Ascension Day

Ephesians 1:16-23 

June 1, 2000

God is Alive in You

Introduction:  Is God alive and active in your life?  That is the question we will ask this evening? How can you tell, how can you know?  We can know for sure that God is active and working in our lives because of the resurrection and the ascension of Jesus Christ.

As you scan the pages of the Scriptures we soon find that God is quite powerful. In six days, using just ten short phrases He brought the entire universe into existence! That is a mighty event which shows the awesome power of God.  But the Resurrection and the Ascension of Jesus shows us even more power! Consider God's power and presence in your life…

1.     In the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and His Ascension the power of God is shown.

A.   God raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:20

1.     To show His acceptance of the redemptive work of Christ (Romans 4:25)

2.     As the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. (1 Corinthians 15:20)

B.    God set Christ at His own right hand (Ephesians 1:20)

1.     A place of honor and power above every power (v.21)

2.     He put all things under His feet; Christ is conqueror over sin, death, and the Devil.

3.     He is Head over all things in the church (Ephesians 1:22)

a.     Christ dwells in each Christian and each Christian in Him

b.    He intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:25)

c.     He rules all things in heaven and on earth.

II.     In the new life of the Christian

A.   The Ephesians were manifesting the new life of faith and love (Ephesians 1:15)

B.    Paul prays for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation (John 17:17)

1. That you may know Christ

2. That you many know the hope of His calling

3. That you may know the riches of the glory of His inheritance (Ephesians 1:18)

Conclusion: God is a God of power. How comforting to our faith that God's power raised Christ and gave Him glory. Through the Word and Sacraments God's Spirit continues to comfort us with Christ and our Christian hope.