In Scotland, we are blessed with some of the most breathtaking clouds—those sweeping, majestic formations that seem to stretch into eternity. When I lift my eyes to the sky, I am often reminded of a profound biblical truth: Christ was lifted up in a cloud, ascending into the throne of heaven.

Stirling, Scotland. Personal photo from Angela.

As we approach Ascension Day on Thursday, May 29, 2025, I find myself reflecting on that divine moment—the moment when Jesus was taken up into heaven. His ascension wasn’t just a departure; it was His divine coronation as King of kings and Lord of lords over all creation.

The Biblical Account of Ascension

Ascension Day, celebrated forty days after Easter, marks a pivotal event in our faith—Christ’s triumphant return to the right hand of His Father. Since the earliest days of the church, believers have paused on this day to remember Jesus’ victory, His divine authority, and the hope His ascension provides.

The account in Acts 1:1-11 vividly captures this moment:

“In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’”

Drago Sacramentary. Public Domain.

The apostles, still marveling at the resurrection, ask Jesus if now He will restore the kingdom to Israel. But Jesus responds, “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Then, in a moment of divine glory, Jesus is lifted before their eyes, and a cloud hides Him from their sight. Two angels appear and say, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:6-11).

The Significance of the Ascension

This moment—Jesus’ ascension—marks a divine transition. It is the culmination of His earthly mission and the beginning of His eternal kingship. But why is it so vital, and what does it mean for us today?

A Heavenly Coronation

Ascension Day is, in essence, Christ’s coronation in heaven. Think of it as the divine acceptance of Jesus as King. In Psalm 110:1 , the scripture says “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.” The ascension confirms that Jesus has taken His rightful place as King over all creation, reigning with authority at the Father’s right hand and fulfilled the Old Testament prophesy in the psalms.

A Bridge from Old Testament Foreshadowings

The Bible offers us powerful foreshadowings of this divine elevation. Enoch, described in Genesis 5:24, “walked with God, and he was not, for God took him,” symbolizes the faithful’s hope of being taken into heaven. Elijah, in 2 Kings 2:11, was caught up in a chariot of fire—a spectacular picture of divine approval and prophetic authority. These stories are shadows, beautiful foreshadows, pointing forward to Christ’s own ascent.

While Enoch and Elijah’s ascensions show divine approval and divine power, only Jesus’ ascent involves His death, resurrection, and triumphant victory—an event that fundamentally changed everything. Unlike Enoch and Elijah, Jesus came through death, rose again, and then ascended, demonstrating His unique authority and victory over death itself.

The Ascension by Pietro Perugino, c. 1510. Public domain.

Victory Over Death

Acts 1:9 vividly describes this moment: “He was lifted up, and a cloud took Him out of their sight.” Earlier, Jesus Himself declared in John 10:17-18, “I have authority to lay my life down and authority to take it up again.” His victory over death is complete. Hebrews 9:27 states, “It is appointed unto man once to die, but after this the judgment.” Yet, Jesus’ ascension confirms His victory. Living a sinless life, dying in our place, rising in triumph, and ascending into heaven—His ascent proves He is indeed the King of kings and Lord of lords. It affirms His divine kingship, His authority over all creation, and His role as the victorious Savior.

Why Does the Ascension Matter?

Jesus explained that His departure was necessary for the fulfillment of God’s plan: “It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go, the Advocate will not come to you” (John 16:7). His ascension opened the door for the Holy Spirit to be poured out upon His followers—empowering us for mission, witness, and holy living.

Fifty days after Easter, at Pentecost, the Spirit was poured out, fulfilling Jesus’ promise. When the Spirit descended upon believers in Jerusalem, it signaled that Christ now reigns eternally. His exaltation to the right hand of God (Ephesians 4:8-10) signifies His authority over every spiritual force and challenge we face. From His throne, Jesus intercedes for us (Romans 8:34)—pleading our case and ensuring nothing can separate us from His love.

The Hope of His Return

The ascension fuels our hope for eternity. Just as Enoch and Elijah were taken into heaven by God’s power, we look forward to our own resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Jesus reigns victoriously and unshakeably—His kingdom will never end.

Christ’s death, resurrection, and ascension form the foundation of our eternal hope. They assure us that death is not the end but a doorway into everlasting life with Him.

Living Under His Kingship

In a world often marked by chaos and despair, the truth of Christ’s ascension is our anchor. When doubts or fears threaten to overwhelm us, we remember that Jesus reigns from heaven. We pray, knowing He intercedes for us (Romans 8:34). When we feel powerless or overwhelmed, we trust His authority over all things (Ephesians 1:20-22). As ambassadors of His kingdom, we carry His hope and truth into a hurting world.

Reflection and Response

Though the way Christ is depicted in the theme of the Ascension has changed through the ages, one might wonder what happened to those earthly witnesses. They kept their eyes fixed on Jesus as He disappeared from their sight, knowing He had entered into their hearts and the realm of the Spirit. Their faith assured them that the stage was now set for the coming of the Holy Spirit. The fire of Pentecost would soon ignite their lives, transforming them beyond recognition—mediocrity replaced by courage, and many would live and die for the faith they boldly declared to Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth.

The Isle of Mull. Personal photo from Angela.

As we celebrate Christ’s ascension, I believe God is calling each of us to continue His work in our own generation. Just as Elisha watched Elijah ascend on the fiery chariot, he picked up the mantle and the miracles continued. And as the disciples were told to go and do as Christ commanded, we too are left with a purpose.

God still has work for us—whether to preach, teach, write, speak, help others, lead with integrity, raise godly children, or reach the hurting. If He’s given you wisdom, help others; if He’s called you to give, then give generously; if He’s called you to serve, do so with faithfulness.

Like Elisha and the disciples, we are left here to do the Father’s will. As long as God gives us breath, we must step out in obedience, trusting He will empower us to fulfill our calling. Our mission is clear: to serve and obey until Christ returns or calls us home.

Keep your eyes on the clouds… He will return in them one day.

Stirling, Scotland. Personal photo from Angela.

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