Ascension Day is a special occasion in the Christian calendar. It is one of the four most important dates, coming after Christmas and Easter but before Pentecost.
It marks the last appearance of Jesus to the disciples after his resurrection at Easter. Jesus had spoken to his disciples about what was going to happen to them and what he expected them to do. He was with them on the Mount of Olives when 'a cloud hid him from their sight' (Acts 1.9) and 'he left them and was taken up into heaven' (Luke 24.51).
This is what we call 'the ascension'. Although this is the last time the Bible records the risen Jesus being seen, it did not mark the end of his work. The story of Jesus' ascension in the Acts of the Apostles tells of two angels appearing to his followers and telling them that Jesus will return one day. Other parts of the New Testament tell in greater detail the message Jesus gave his followers just before his ascension:
'You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.' (Acts 1.8)
(The Bible version used is the NIV.)
Ascension Home Page
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