The Feast of the Ascension (May 18, 2023)

May the words of my mouth and the meditations of our hearts be alway acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, our Strength and our Redeemer. Amen.

Introduction

John Shelby Spong’s eighth point of reform: “The story of the Ascension assumed a three-tiered universe and is therefore not capable of being translated into the concepts of a post-Copernican space age.” Is the Ascension merely a depiction that betrays a backwards understanding of how the universe is structured?

What is Jesus Doing?

Lifted up to draw all men to himself.

John 3:14 “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:”

He goes to Heaven where he intercedes for us.

Hebrews 9:24, “Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us.”

He ascends so he can send us the Holy Ghost.

Ephesians 4:8-10, “Therefore it is said ‘When he ascended on high he led a host of captives and he gave gifts to men.”

John 14:16 “And I will ask the Father and he will give you another Counselor to be with you for ever, even the Spirit of truth.”

Why Does it Matter to Us?

It means we can trust in Christ.

Ephesians 1:20, God has “made him [Jesus] to sit at his right hand in the heavenly places.”

It means the Eucharist makes us part of the Communion of Saints.

It means we can live life in the power of the Holy Ghost.

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.