His Holiness Pope Shenouda speaks of the Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ into heaven following His resurrection from the dead.

The Ascension marks the fulfilment of Christ’s redemptive work and His return to His heavenly glory.

The Lord Jesus ascended in the presence of His disciples, confirming to them the reality of His resurrection and His divine presence.

The Spiritual Message

The Ascension proclaims that Christ has not forsaken humanity, but has raised our human nature with Him to heaven.

It teaches us that the believer’s life should be rooted in heaven, even whilst living on earth.

The Ascension also calls us to remain steadfast in faith and hope in Christ, and to await the fulfilment of His promises.

The Educational Lesson

The Ascension illustrates the status and glory of the Lord Jesus, and reveals the dignity of the human nature with which He was united.

It also reminds the believer that the aim of the Christian life is for the heart to be lifted up to God, and for a person to live in love, obedience and readiness for eternal life.

Practical Application

Believers should continually lift their hearts to God amidst the responsibilities of daily life.

This is manifested in prayer, holding fast to the faith, loving others, and living in accordance with Christ’s commandments.

When we remember the Ascension of the Lord, we are encouraged to direct our thoughts and longings towards heaven, and to live with steadfast hope in Christ.