FBCTSM #5

Luke 24:45–52 ESV

45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” 50 And he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51 While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy,

One of the greatest movies ever made is The Miracle on Ice.

If you are not familiar with the movie, it is about the 1980 US Olympic Hockey team, and their Cinderella run to with the gold medal.

Right before their final match against Russia, who was dominating the hockey scene at the time, Coach Herb Brooks gives a speech that is still quoted to this day…

And there is one line that speaks louder than any other line from that speech.

“Great moments are born from great opportunities.”

The US hockey team goes on to defeat all odds and wins the gold medal.

At this point in the book of Luke, the disciples have been trained and equipped.

Jesus is now painting an opportunity for them…

They have a job to do.

And right when Jesus finishes His talk- He ascends into the heavens…