Luke 24:44-53 (TPT)
44 Then he said to them, “Don’t you remember the words that I spoke to you when I was still with you? I told you that everything written about me would be fulfilled, including all the prophecies from the law of Moses through the Psalms and the writings of the prophets—that they would all find their fulfillment.”
45 He supernaturally unlocked their understanding to receive the revelation of the Scriptures, 46 then said to them, “Everything that has happened fulfills what was prophesied of me. Christ, the Messiah, was destined to suffer and rise from the dead on the third day. 47 Now you must go into all the nations and preach repentance [grace and conversion] and forgiveness of sins so that they will turn to me. Start right here in Jerusalem. 48 For you are my witnesses and have seen for yourselves all that has transpired. 49 And I will send the fulfillment of the Father’s promise [the Holy Spirit] to you. So stay here in the city until the mighty power of heaven falls upon you and wraps around you.”
The Ascension of Jesus
50 Jesus led his disciples out to Bethany. He lifted his hands over them and blessed them in his love. 51 While he was still speaking out words of love and blessing, he floated off the ground into the sky, ascending into heaven before their very eyes! 52 And all they could do was worship him.
Overwhelmed and ecstatic with joy, they made their way back to Jerusalem. 53 Every day they went to the temple, praising and worshiping God.
When we read the Word of God sometimes we struggle to understand the meaning for our lives, because we try to make sense of things from a purely human point of view. However, the Word of God—spoken through Christ—is described as spirit and life, so we need help spiritually processing the Word. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to make the Word alive to our spirits by bringing forth revelation (communicating divine Truth).
In our passage today, the disciples are having trouble putting all the pieces together regarding Christ, so he supernaturally unlocks their human understanding and helps them receive revelation. Christ—the Anointed One—does the same thing for us as we connect. The Lord was there in the beginning, hung on the cross to make repentance a way of life, commissions believers to help others turn toward salvation in the power of the Spirit, and will one day return for his faithful. He knows the WHOLE story, because he wrote it. So whatever you face today, he is able to lead you through it; the revelation of Christ is your Guide. Let the love of Christ wrap the power of heaven around you, today, as you live the Word. Then turn to tell someone else about the goodness of God. Praise God for today we celebrate Ascension Day; Christ is exalted, sits at the right hand of the Father, and rules as Lord of All! Hallelujah!
Prayer: Lord, unlock my understanding each day in the Spirit to help me make the connections that will lead me into abundant life. As well, help me share those revelations with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.