The ascension of Jesus Christ, as chronicled in Luke 24:44-53, is more than just a historical event; it's a cornerstone of the Christian faith, holding profound significance for believers today. While the crucifixion and resurrection often take center stage, the ascension offers crucial insights into Jesus' completed work, our present reality, and our future hope.

In this powerful passage, Jesus, having already conquered death, gathers his disciples for what would be his final physical encounter with them on Earth. He begins by reminding them of the divine orchestration of his life, death, and resurrection. "When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled" (Luke 24:44). This isn't merely a recap; it's a revelation. Jesus "opened their minds to understand the Scriptures" (Luke 24:45), unveiling how his suffering, death, and triumphant return were not random acts but the meticulous fulfillment of ancient prophecies. The Messiah's suffering, death, and resurrection on the third day were all part of God's redemptive plan (Luke 24:46).

This understanding of prophecy's fulfillment sets the stage for the audacious commission given to the disciples. The message of repentance and forgiveness of sins, proclaimed in the authority of his name, was not to be confined to a small group in Jerusalem but was to reach "all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem" (Luke 24:47). The disciples, eyewitnesses to these transformative events, were to be the conduits of this world-changing message: "You are witnesses of all these things" (Luke 24:48). However, how could these ordinary individuals, despite their intimate encounters with Jesus, possibly undertake such a colossal task? Jesus, anticipating this very question, provided the answer: the Holy Spirit. He promised, "And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven" (Luke 24:49). This promise is a critical link between the ascension and the birth of the Church. The ascension was not merely Jesus' departure; it was the essential prelude to the Spirit's arrival, empowering believers for witness and mission.

The ascension itself is described with both solemnity and wonder. Jesus leads them to Bethany, a place associated with fellowship and blessing. "Then Jesus led them to Bethany, and lifting his hands to heaven, he blessed them" (Luke 24:50). This image is incredibly tender and significant – a loving shepherd imparting a final blessing, an enduring legacy of grace and peace. Then, amidst this profound blessing, the miraculous occurs: "While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up to heaven" (Luke 24:51). This was not a disappearance but a glorious, visible ascent, a triumphal return to the Father's side. The disciples' response is remarkable: "So they worshiped him and then returned to Jerusalem filled with great joy" (Luke 24:52). They didn't grieve his physical absence; instead, they rejoiced in his triumph and the profound implications of his departure.

So, why is the ascension so essential to us as Christians today?

Firstly, it signifies the completion of Jesus' earthly redemptive work. His sacrifice on the cross atoned for our sins, and his resurrection validated his victory over death. The ascension confirms that he has now returned to his rightful place of authority and glory at the right hand of God the Father (Hebrews 1:3, 10:12). He reigns supreme, not merely as a historical figure, but as our living King.

Secondly, it paves the way for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Jesus clearly stated that his departure was necessary for the Spirit to come (John 16:7). The ascension, therefore, is directly linked to Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit empowered the early Church to fulfill the Great Commission. For us, this means we are not left to navigate life's challenges alone. The same power that raised Christ from the dead now indwells us, empowering us to witness, understand Scripture, and live a life that honors God.

Thirdly, the ascension assures us of Jesus' ongoing intercession on our behalf. At the right hand of the Father, Jesus serves as our High Priest, constantly interceding on our behalf (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25). This offers immense comfort and confidence. When we falter, when we struggle, when we pray, we have an advocate in heaven who understands our weaknesses and pleads our case before God.

Finally, the ascension provides a tangible hope for our future. Just as Jesus visibly ascended, so too will He visibly return (Acts 1:11). His ascension is a powerful promise of His second coming when He will establish His eternal kingdom and bring full redemption to His people. This hope fuels our perseverance, strengthens our faith, and directs our gaze heavenward.
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The disciples' response to the ascension serves as a powerful model for us. They didn't despair; they returned "filled with great joy" and "spent all of their time in the Temple, praising God" (Luke 24:52-53). Their joy stemmed from their understanding of Jesus' triumph and the impending gift of the Spirit. Their consistent praise demonstrated their deep devotion and anticipation. The ascension of Christ is not a mere theological footnote. It is a vital truth that underpins our understanding of Jesus' ultimate authority, the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, Jesus' continuous advocacy for us, and the glorious hope of his return. As Christians, we live in the "already and not yet" – celebrating Christ's victory through His ascension and eagerly awaiting His promised return, all while being empowered by the Spirit He sent. May our lives, like those early disciples, be marked by profound joy, unwavering praise, and an active faith that reflects the profound significance of Christ's ascent to glory.

Easter. It's more than just a date on the calendar; it's the seismic shift in human history, the heartbeat of our faith. We celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, a triumph that forever altered our understanding of life, death, and eternity. But at the core of this magnificent event lies an even more profound truth: the boundless, unfathomable love of our Heavenly Father. As we reflect on this season of renewed hope and vibrant new life, let's immerse ourselves in the words of Jesus found in John 14:23-29, discovering how they illuminate the enduring heart of Easter.

In this poignant passage, Jesus prepares His disciples for His imminent departure. Though spoken in the shadow of the cross, his words are not of despair but of divine promise. He begins by stating, "All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them" (John 14:23 NLT). This is not merely a conditional statement; it's an invitation to extraordinary intimacy. The Father's love, extended through Jesus, isn't a distant, abstract concept. It's an active, personal, and indwelling presence. Easter's empty tomb and victorious resurrection are the ultimate testament to this truth. It's the irrefutable proof that the Father's love for us is so unwavering that He would pay the ultimate price to bridge the chasm between a Holy God and His beloved creation. The resurrected Christ doesn't just offer forgiveness; He offers communion, a divine dwelling within our very being.

Jesus continues, underscoring the divine origin of His mission and His message: "Anyone who doesn't love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me" (John 14:24 NLT). Every teaching, every miracle, every act of compassion from Jesus was a living, breathing revelation of the Father's character and will. Easter reminds us that God's plan for redemption wasn't an afterthought or a quick fix. It was a meticulously crafted, eternally purposed demonstration of His boundless love, meticulously woven throughout history, culminating in the sacrificial love displayed on the cross and the triumphant resurrection. The Father's voice echoes through His Son, offering salvation and reconciliation.

Then comes a promise of profound significance, one that carries us beyond the historical moment of Jesus' ascension and into our present reality: "But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you" (John 14:26 NLT). Jesus' departure wasn't an abandonment; it was a divine deployment! The Holy Spirit, the very presence of God, is sent to dwell within us, illuminate the Scriptures, empower us for life, and remind us of Christ's glorious truths. This means that the Father's love, the essence of Easter, isn't confined to a historical event; it's a living, breathing reality in our daily lives through the indwelling Holy Spirit. He is our constant companion, divine guide, and inner witness to the Father's unending love.

And finally, the most precious legacy, a gift beyond measure: "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid" (John 14:27 NLT). In a world plagued by anxiety, fear, and uncertainty, Jesus offers a peace that transcends earthly comprehension. This peace, born from the Father's unfailing love and secured by Christ's victorious resurrection, is an unshakeable anchor for our souls. It's the profound assurance that no matter what storms we face, the Father's love remains, and His unwavering presence is always with us. This peace guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, a peace the world can neither provide nor take away.
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"Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really loved me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do happen, you will believe" (John 14:28-29 NLT). These verses underscore the purpose of Jesus' words: to cultivate faith. Easter is the ultimate fulfillment of these prophecies. The resurrection, the ascension, and the promise of His return are all designed to solidify our belief in the Father's plan and His perfect love.

Easter is not just about remembering a past event; it's about embracing a present reality and anticipating a future hope. It's about living in the joyous truth that a Father's love, so perfectly demonstrated in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, makes its eternal home with us. It's a love that casts out fear, imparts an unshakeable peace, and empowers us to live lives authentically reflect His glory. As the days lengthen and the earth awakens with new life, let us fix our gaze on the true heart of Easter: the enduring, all-encompassing love of our Heavenly Father. May His peace fill your heart this Easter season and beyond.

The echoes of "He is risen!" still resonate in our hearts, a vibrant reminder of the earth-shattering event that redefined history and our existence. But being Easter people isn't just about celebrating a past miracle; it's about living in the continuous light and transformative power of that resurrection. As we navigate the days and weeks following Easter Sunday, we are called to embody the very essence of what it means to be children of God, a call beautifully illuminated in the words of Jesus in John 13:31-35.
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This passage unfolds in the shadow of betrayal, just as Judas departs to set the events leading to the cross in motion. Yet, amidst this darkness, Jesus speaks not of despair, but of glory. "The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory, and God will be glorified because of him." It's a paradoxical glory, achieved not through earthly power or dominion, but through selfless sacrifice and ultimate love. This glory isn't confined to Jesus alone; it's a glory that reflects back to God and, as verse 32 suggests, is reciprocated.

Then comes a tender address: "Dear children, I will be with you only a little longer." These words, spoken with the weight of impending separation, underscore the preciousness of Jesus's time with his disciples – and by extension, with us. He knew the void his absence would create, the longing they would feel. And in that awareness, he imparts a crucial instruction, a new commandment that would become the very hallmark of his followers. "So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other." This isn't a suggestion or a gentle piece of advice; it's a command, a directive as vital as any other. But what makes it "new"? It's the standard and the motivation: "Just as I have loved you." Jesus' love was radical, selfless, and unwavering. It was a love that embraced the flawed, the outcast, and the betrayer. It was a love that ultimately led him to the cross. This is the benchmark for our love. It's not enough to offer polite affection or conditional kindness. We are called to a love that mirrors the love of Christ – a love that is sacrificial, forgiving, and actively seeks the well-being of others, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. This love transcends personal preferences, social barriers, and even perceived worthiness.

The profound impact of this commandment is revealed in the subsequent verse: "Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." Our love for each other is visible evidence of our connection to Christ. It's not eloquent sermons or theological debates that will ultimately convince the world of the truth of the Gospel, but the tangible expression of Christ's love through his followers. Being Easter people means more than just believing in the resurrection. It means allowing the resurrected Christ to live and love through us. It means embracing this "new" commandment with our whole being, striving to love others as Christ loved us. This isn't always easy. We live in a world characterized by division, judgment, and self-interest. But as children of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are called to be different. We are called to extend grace where judgment is offered, to build bridges where walls are erected, and to provide compassion where indifference prevails. We are called to see the image of God in every person, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances. We are called to the messy, challenging, and ultimately transformative work of loving one another deeply and authentically.

The glory Jesus spoke of in that upper room continues to unfold in those who choose to live out this commandment. When we love as Christ loved, we reflect his glory to the world. We become living testimonies to the power of the resurrection, demonstrating that death has been defeated in a historical event and how we choose to live our lives. So, dear children of God, as we continue our journey beyond Easter, let us embrace this defining characteristic. Let our love for one another be so profound that it becomes an undeniable testament to the resurrected Christ who lives within us. Let us be Easter people, not just in memory, but in the fabric of our being, radiating the love that conquers all.

From John 10:22-30
 
The biting winds of winter swirled through Jerusalem. The air crackled with the cold and the anticipation of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. Amidst the familiar stones of Solomon's Colonnade, Jesus walked, the embodiment of the light that Hanukkah commemorated. Yet, despite the festive atmosphere, a tension hung in the air. The people, their hearts yearning for clarity, pressed in on him. "How long are you going to keep us in suspense?" they demanded. "If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly." Their question, though direct, reveals a deeper struggle. They were looking for a Messiah who fit their preconceived notions, a political or military leader who would deliver them from Roman oppression. They sought a grand announcement, a dramatic unveiling. But Jesus, the true Messiah, had already been speaking through his actions, through the miraculous works performed in his Father's name.

His response, "I have already told you, and you don't believe me," cuts to the heart of the matter. Belief isn't simply about hearing words; it's about recognizing the truth revealed through word and deed. Jesus wasn't just claiming to be the Messiah; his life, miracles, and very being testified to his divine identity. Then comes a profound and comforting truth: "But you don't believe me because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." This isn't a statement of exclusion, but an invitation. It speaks to a spiritual discernment, a heart attuned to the Shepherd's call. Just as sheep instinctively recognize their Shepherd's voice, those who belong to Christ acknowledge his truth, love, and authority. And what is the reward for these faithful followers? Jesus declares with unwavering certainty: "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father's hand."

These words resonate with the very essence of Easter. Jesus conquered sin and death through his death and resurrection, offering the gift of eternal life to all who believe. As Easter people, we have heard his voice, recognized him as the Good Shepherd, and chosen to follow him. We are the sheep entrusted to his care, held securely in his loving hands and the even more powerful hands of the Father. The final declaration in this passage is perhaps the most significant: "The Father and I are one." This isn't merely a close relationship; it's a statement of divine unity. Jesus, the Son of God, shares the very essence of the Father. His words are the Father's words, his actions the Father's actions. To know Jesus is to know the Father.
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As Easter people, living in the radiant aftermath of Christ's resurrection, this truth should shape our very being. We are not simply commemorating a past event but living in its ongoing reality. We are called to be like sheep who recognize the Shepherd's voice, trust in his promises, and follow him wholeheartedly. Much like the Jerusalem of Jesus' time, the world around us may still be searching and questioning. But we, who have encountered the risen Lord, have the answer. We have heard the voice of the Son of God, and we know that in him is life eternal, security unshakeable, and a unity with the Father that transcends all understanding. Let us live as Easter people, confident in the love of our Shepherd, secure in the Father's embrace, and radiant with the light of the Son of God.

​The echoes of "He is risen!" still resonate in our hearts, a powerful reminder of the victory won on that first Easter morning. But being a Christian isn't just about remembering a historical event; it's about living in the light of that resurrection, embodying the reality that death has been defeated and new life is possible. We are, in essence, Easter people. To understand what that truly means, we can turn to a breathtaking scene in the Book of Revelation: the triumphant declaration in chapter 5, verses 11-14: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain!"
Imagine the scene John witnesses: thousands upon thousands, and myriads upon myriads of angels encircling the throne, along with every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, all joining in a thunderous chorus. Their voices unite in proclaiming the worthiness of the Lamb – Jesus Christ, who was sacrificed and, by his blood, ransomed people for God from every tribe, language, people, and nation. This isn't a quiet, contemplative moment. It's an explosion of praise, a cosmic affirmation of Jesus's supreme value and the profound impact of his sacrifice. He is worthy to receive power, wealth, wisdom, might, honor, glory, and blessing. This isn't just a polite acknowledgment; it's a recognition of his inherent right to all these things because of what he has done. Being Easter people means aligning our lives with this heavenly declaration. It means allowing the truth of Jesus's worthiness to permeate every aspect of our being. How does this translate into our daily lives?
Firstly, it shapes our worship. Our gatherings shouldn't be mere rituals but heartfelt expressions of adoration for the Lamb who was slain and is now risen. Like the countless voices in Revelation, our praise should be genuine, reflecting the depth of our gratitude for his sacrifice and the hope we have in his resurrection. We acknowledge his sovereignty, power, and wisdom and offer him the honor and glory he so rightly deserves.
Secondly, being Easter people transforms our perspective on suffering and sacrifice. Jesus, the Lamb who was slain, endured immense pain and death for our sake. As his followers, we are called to a life of self-denial and service, mirroring his selfless love. This doesn't mean seeking out suffering but facing trials with the knowledge that even in the darkest valleys, the victory of the Lamb endures. His sacrifice empowers us to persevere, knowing our present sufferings are not the final word.
Thirdly, it fuels our mission. The Lamb's sacrifice wasn't just for us; it was for the redemption of people from every tribe, language, and nation. As Easter people, we are called to share the good news of this redemption with the world. Our lives become a testament to the transformative power of the risen Christ, inviting others to join in the chorus of praise.
Finally, living as Easter people instills a profound sense of hope in us. The resurrection is the ultimate victory over death, the promise of eternal life with God. This hope shapes our present, giving us courage in the face of adversity and inspiring us to live lives that reflect our new creation in Christ. We look forward with anticipation to the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, joining the cosmic chorus in its ultimate and complete expression.
The declaration "Worthy is the Lamb!" isn't just a heavenly anthem; it's a call to action for us, the Easter people. It's an invitation to live lives of worship, sacrifice, mission, and unwavering hope, all grounded in the profound truth of Jesus's victory. May we continually echo this declaration in our hearts and through our actions, allowing the light of the risen Lamb to shine brightly in our world.