The disciples witnessed Jesus ascending into heaven, and they could not help but gaze at the sky in awe and wonder. However, an angel appeared and told them not to keep looking up at the sky. The angel’s question, “Why do you look up at the sky?” suggested some important lessons for the disciples and for us today.
- Jesus’ ascension gives hope to the disciples.
The disciples looked up at the sky with disappointment as Jesus ascended. But two angels told them not to linger there.
(1) Jesus, who ascended to heaven, is still the same and works for the believers. The phrase “this Jesus who ascended to heaven” (οὗτος ὁ Ἰησοῦς ὁ ἀναλημφθεὶς ἀφ᾿ ὑμῶν εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν) in verse 11 means that Jesus does not change after his ascension. He remains our brother who sympathizes with us. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” He continues his ministry as a compassionate high priest. This gives us hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus, our forerunner, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 6:19-20)
(2) Jesus will come again as he ascended to heaven. He will remain the same in his character and love. He will also ask his people to obey him, as he did on earth. He is the faithful God who keeps his promise. He expects endless and limitless faith from his followers. That is why he said, “The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day.” (Jn 12:48)
- Jesus’ ascension gives his disciples a mission on earth.
Jesus’ ascension empowers his disciples to fulfill their mission on earth. They should be faithful and diligent, not wasting time looking up at the sky and mourning. True religion does not seek peace by escaping from the world or looking for visions and signs. Jesus has achieved salvation, and every believer should share this good news with all nations. God blesses those who work joyfully, and the devil cannot tempt them. The devil enters the heart of the lazy person.
By Dr. Park Yoon-sun