MAY 2018
CLIMBING THE MOUNTAIN TOGETHER
Posted by: District Evangelist Brian Sigmund

On Thursday, May 10, 2018, which is 40 days after Easter, Christians around the world who profess Christ, commemorate Jesus Christ’s Ascension into heaven to return to God, His Father.

Jesus already referred to His return to the Father in a number of ways.  To Mary, who stood outside the tomb on Good Friday, “Jesus said to her ‘Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’” John 20: 17.  Later Jesus, together with his Apostles, took them to the mount of Olives where He Ascended, and it is recorded “…He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.” Acts 1: 9   

When we think of Ascension, our thoughts may go to a mountain.  The highest mountain elevation in the world is Mount Everest located in the Himalayas of Asia and is 29,035 ft (8850m) above sea level.  Many have a life-long desire to climb this mountain and it is noted that nearly 300, as of 2017, have already lost their lives in their attempt to climb it.  It takes much endurance, training, and being physically fit.  The climber has to tolerate wind, rain, cold, and even lack of oxygen at the higher points in the climb.

We as fellow Christians are also on a spiritual ascent to be with the Almighty God.  Along the way in life, climbing this spiritual mountain, we too endure much and it takes a tremendous effort along the way.  The advantage we have is we have the Lord on our side and He is there to help along the way with every step.  He equips us and provides for us the nourishment necessary through word and sacrament in the divine services.  Our spiritual oxygen can always remain through our fervent prayer life, which may be referred to as “the breath of the soul”.

The Lord Jesus gave the promise that He would return again.  He himself said to His Apostles in His time while on earth “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14: 3. 

Let us continue this climb that will be completed on the day of Christ’s return when He will come to receive us.

 

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