Get Real November 16 Devotional
November 16, 2024
ACTS 1:9 | 9 When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight.
Departure moments can be hard. The prospect of time without someone you love and need being present is difficult. Phones and face-time help, but there is a reason airports and train stations see scenes of deep emotion.
Jesus’ departure marked a new stage for His disciples and I’m sure it was also traumatic. But the gift of His Spirit meant His presence was not lost. Once localized to a time and date and zip code, He could now lead and inspire any time and anywhere. As a doctrine, the
Ascension is rich. It signals the rule of Christ, using the eternal powers of love and truth, who now sit at God’s right hand of authority. It marks the beginning of the era of the church, when a small scale invasion in Palestine becomes a global movement. It also means Jesus’ human experiences become part of the divine identity, including His suffering.
When was your hardest departure?
Will you cultivate Jesus’ presence daily in this new year?
