Thursday 21 May
An electrifying word because it can have many values attached to it. I once read a book by Don Bradshaw on this topic and it refers to the process of reclaiming and nurturing your inner child. Soldiers on deployment dream of the day of coming home. Of being met by loved ones at the door. One also read some stories of this in social media. This is specifically of value if one perceives “home” as an important and valuable place to be. As a young student, this was a dream. Studying at university, but going home for the June and December holidays. Seeing the things at home, enjoying the meals and company, and nurturing parents and family.
The gospel writers, as well as Revelations 4 and 5 talks about an event that can be described as “homecoming”. This coming Thursday we celebrate Jesus’ ascension to heaven. For his disciples: departure. For Jesus: homecoming. And in Revelations 4 and 5 we get something of a glimpse here-of. John, the writer, sees the magnificence of heaven on coming in the presence of God. People singing and worshipping. And then in Revelations 5 the scroll which needs somebody worthy to open it. And initially the sense of John that such a person cannot be found ….. until …. “the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David… the Lamb …” comes forward.
Jesus in heaven! He ascended. He is there! He is judged worthy to open the scroll. If it was not for Him return to heaven, the scroll could not be opened. And in response hereto the choruses of jubilation. Of thousands singing and rejoicing. Rejoicing, repeating in voices of ten thousands: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” Truly, the universe reverberates with this message. Jesus – the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, the Lamb – is at the throne of God in heaven with beauty indescribable. He has returned. Homecoming!! Jubilation!!
At the same time when Jesus arrives in the throne hall with the Old and New Testament (two times 12) elders singing and rejoicing, Jesus’ disciples stand on the Mount of Olives where they saw him ascend. He spoke to them. In the forty days since his resurrection, He tried to prepare them for this day. In John, Jesus shared this when they had a meal, and communion was celebrated the first time. He said: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me.” (John 14: 3). Maybe they did not think about these words. Maybe they were transfixed on the miracle happening. Many things happened. But the message gets reinforced by two “strangers” in white clothes (Acts 1:10). So, why is this significant for me on 21 May 2020?
- It is interesting that Christians make a lot of Jesus descending from heaven to a stable in Bethlehem at his birth. But not the same value is given to Jesus ascending, his entering the throne hall of God the Father, the choruses, the jubilation, and him sitting down with God the Father. 10:11-14 says by fulfilling that and being back in the throne hall, it is truly “mission accomplished”. The birth, life, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascendance is confirmed. It is done!
- While the church in Jerusalem is yet to be initiated, the work of his disciples began. The first step: wait in Jerusalem. WAIT! Which they did. And Jesus? His work as an intercessor on behalf of Christians begins. He has access to the Father and pleads for us.
- With His ascendance, His power over the Evil One is confirmed. He returns as the conqueror. Peter writes about this: “Now that He has gone into heaven, He is at God’s right hand with angels, authorities, and powers subject to Him” (1 Pet. 3:22).
- While it is “mission accomplished” for Jesus, the mission of Christians begins: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, ….” (Matt 28: 19).
Can I invite you to something on Thursday morning at sunrise? Find a quiet spot prior to sunrise. This is the time when Christians celebrate Jesus’ ascension. Sunrise meaning a new day, a new beginning. Immerse yourself with thoughts of the Throne Hall of heaven, immerse yourself with thoughts of what it means for you that Jesus has ascended to heaven. Pause a moment and seek comfort in what was accomplished. Immerse yourself in a specific way you would like to frame “hope” for yourself.