“‘Men of Galilee,’ they said, ‘why are you standing here staring into the sky? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!’” — Acts 1:11

The Ascension was not a disappearance, but a deployment. As the disciples stood on the mount, straining their eyes to catch a final glimpse of their Lord as He vanished into the clouds, the angels issued a gentle but firm correction. They were not to be a people of “upward staring,” paralyzed by nostalgia, but a people of “forward moving,” fueled by a promise. The One who left in physical glory will return in physical glory. The story that began in a manger and reached its climax at an empty tomb will find its ultimate resolution when the clouds part once more and the King returns to claim His own.

This promise of return is the fuel for our mission and the comfort for our waiting. We do not look at the sky with a sense of loss, but with a sense of anticipation. Every day that passes brings us closer to the moment when faith will be turned into sight and our “longing” will be turned into “having.” Our work on earth is done in the light of His inevitable arrival, giving our lives a sense of urgency and joy. We live every moment in the shadow of the coming glory of Jesus.

Prayer: King Jesus, I thank You for the promise that You are not done with this world and that You are coming back for us. Forgive me for the moments I live with my head down in despair instead of looking forward with hope. Empower me to be found faithful and busy with the work of Your Kingdom until the day I see You face to face. I anchor my soul in the promise of Your return and I look for the appearing of Jesus. Amen.