Thursday May 11, 2023

Today is Thursday, May 11 and we are studying what the Bible says about Christ’s Ascension.

As I enter this time of prayer, I quiet my mind, slow my breathing and focus on the God who loves me. I rest in his presence.

Pause and Pray

Come, Holy Spirit, open my eyes to see the truth of scripture, open my ears to hear your still small voice, and open my mind to understand the message you have for me today. Amen.

My thirsty soul cries out for God’s loving presence with the words of Psalm 143.

So my spirit grows faint within me; my heart within me is dismayed. I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; I thirst for you like a parched land. Psalm 143:4-6

Pause and Pray

Jesus made many appearances to his followers for forty days following the Resurrection. After he offered his final instructions, he ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives. The Ascension was the victorious, triumphant act that crowned the royal and priestly ministries of the Messiah. The Great High Priest completed the presentation of the blood sacrifice of atonement – his own blood shed for all humanity. The Son of David took his seat on the throne at the right hand of God Almighty. Jesus reigns in power and has complete authority over heaven and earth. In Mark’s gospel, the Ascension is described in the following way.

He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it. Mark 16:15-16,19-20

The spread of the gospel began with the command of Christ to his followers. Those who believe the good news are baptized and saved and receive the same commission to “go and tell” others about God’s Son Jesus. Along with the disciples, I am sent out to share the good news about Jesus’ atoning death for the sins of each person and encourage them to believe and be saved. Jesus is seated in power on the throne of heaven, yet he is also walking beside me, working with me, confirming my words and blessing my good deeds as I witness to his great love.

Ask: What can I do or say today that will proclaim the love of Jesus to others? How might my actions be just as powerful as my words?

Pause and Pray

Lord Jesus, you are high and lifted up. You are the Prince of Peace and King of Glory. All honor, glory and praise to you, my Blessed Savior. Thank you for loving me and shedding your blood to atone for my sin. I am grateful that you are in heaven seated on the throne and preparing a place for me to be with you forever. I am grateful that you are also here – walking with me and talking with me as I live my earthly life. I read the words from Mark again and listen for the message you have for me.

He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it. Mark 16:15-16,19-20

Ask: What image, word or phrase stands out to me when I slowly read this passage? What is God trying to say to me through these words of scripture?

Pause and Pray

I consider what God might be saying to me today through these words of scripture. What is the Holy Spirit stirring in my heart and mind? Perhaps there is somewhere I am to “go” – whether that is crossing the globe by airplane, connecting with someone on social media, knocking on the door of a neighbor, visiting a friend in the hospital, or greeting a stranger at the grocery store, I can trust Jesus is with me. He will work with me to bring good into a situation, bless a relationship, sanctify a moment, or confirm a truth. I can trust him as he “sends” me into the course of my day.

Pause and Pray

Lord Jesus, stand upon the precipice of the dawning day and reveal the upcoming opportunities you will provide for me to do good. Help me pay attention to the way you are working in the lives of those around me and give me the courage to join you there. Purify my heart and give me right intentions as I offer myself in service to you. Amen.

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45

I leave this time of prayer ready to serve my Lord Jesus in whatever task he gives me – be it large or small, visible or hidden.

Amen