Raising his hands he blessed them, and while blessing them, took his leave, being carried up to heaven. – Luke 24
We are now down to our last two days of Lent devotions. Today and tomorrow I really just wanted us to experience the last of the story from two other viewpoints.
Day 49 we focus on Luke’s last version of Jesus. He focuses on how Jesus shows the disciples how his life is a fulfillment of the scriptures. That they are the ones that will be witnesses to him, his life, and how to live that out after he is gone.
In my opinion the best part of this story is the end when Jesus blesses the disciples and is raised into heaven at that same moment. How perfect it is and how the disciples then go to the Temple to praise God. I feel like this story reminds me of my dream way back when when I felt so close to Jesus. When he went was raising me to heaven with him. A beautiful feeling! The disciples must have been touched to their very soul and filled with abounding love. That love would feed their souls to teach others of Jesus love and devotion.
My prayer for you today is that Jesus lift you up right where you are today. Whether you are happy, sad, angry, lonely. Wherever you are today. May God lift you up high and may you be filled with his love and grace today and always!
STUDY – Luke 24 (You’re the Witnesses) – The Message Bible
Then he said, “Everything I told you while I was with you comes to this: All the things written about me in the Law of Moses, in the Prophets, and in the Psalms have to be fulfilled.”
He went on to open their understanding of the Word of God, showing them how to read their Bibles this way. He said, “You can see now how it is written that the Messiah suffers, rises from the dead on the third day, and then a total life-change through the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed in his name to all the nations – starting from here, from Jerusalem! You’re the first to hear and see it. You’re the witnesses. What comes next is very important. I am sending what my Father promised to you, so stay here in the city until he arrives, until you’re equipped with power from on high.”
He then led them out of the city over to Bethany. Raising his hands he blessed them, and while blessing them, took his leave, being carried up to heaven.
And they were on their knees, worshipping him. They returned to Jerusalem bursting with joy. They spent all their time in the Temple praising God. Yes.
Simply. Honestly. Emily. 