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Watch for the Light
I’m sensitive to the lack of light that we have in the northern hemisphere this time Read More
The Upper Room is here for you in these anxious times. Click Here
Stephanie A. Ford | Read Luke 24:44-53
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Sign Up TodayOn this day of Christ’s ascension, we are invited to join the disciples in awe as Jesus takes his leave from earthly existence. For forty days, the resurrected Christ has been appearing with comfort and challenge. Now it is time for him to ascend to his father.
Lectio divina, the...
Jesus, we join generations of witnesses to your great love, forgiveness, and wisdom. Enliven us as we bear witness to you in our daily lives. Amen.
Though Jesus has taught his disciples that God’s kingdom is not an earthly one, following the Resurrection some are still expecting him to set up a kingdom on earth. Instead, Jesus ascends into heaven in front of them, being taken up in the clouds. The scene recalls Psalm 68, where the Lord is described as one who rides on the clouds across the expanse of the heavens. In the Gospel reading, Jesus anticipates his coming departure and prays for his followers. Peter talks about a trial—literally a “fiery ordeal”—that is testing Christians. The reference to fire may be specific, for the Roman historian Tacitus records that Nero killed Christians in Rome by burning them alive. The author may therefore be speaking about suffering that is not just metaphorical.
Read Acts 1:6-14. When have you experienced the power of community?
Read Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35. Recall a time when you recognized God’s power with fear and joy. How might that have been a foretaste of God’s kingdom?
Read 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11. How have you walked with faith through suffering?
Read John 17:1-11. What does it mean for you or your congregation that Jesus prayed for unity among his followers?
Respond by posting a prayer.
While several strategies for reopening the world are being discussed, I encourage you—the people of God everywhere—to allow this season to be a formative one during which you can make new discoveries about God and increase your faith. Use this time to embark on a life of prayer, a life of study, and a life of action—involvement in the community.”
