05-02-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 2, 2024
This Sunday, though not technically the day we usually celebrate the Ascension of Jesus, we will be focusing on the Acts 1 passage where we read, “After Jesus said these things, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight” (vs.9). The scene from Acts sounds similar to the story of the ancient prophet Elijah being carried into heaven (2 Kings 2) and his student, Elisha, taking over. The people say of Elisha after Elijah is carried into heaven, “Elijah’s spirit has settled on Elisha!” The teacher’s spirit, the essence of Elijah and his message, is now present in the next generation. Notice that the Ascension of Jesus occurs immediately before Pentecost, the day the Spirit came upon the students of Jesus. Could it be that God recognizes that students, when their teacher leaves them, need more than just memories? There is something important about the power of the Spirit that takes those memories and what was learned and puts them into action in the lives of those who have moved from student to teacher.

God of Encouragement and Purpose, whenever I find myself a part of the next generation, I pray for the capacity to take what I’ve learned and, through your Spirit, utilize it for the work of your Kin(g)dom. Amen.