Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.
THURSDAY, May 21 Ascension Day
Ephesians 1:15-23. God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion.
I have trouble believing this verse. It proclaims--and this is what the Feast of the Ascension is all about--that God has installed Christ "in the heavenly places" and given him authority over all things. I want to ask Jesus: "If you are really in charge, how come the world and my life are in such a mess?" I have often prayed that question.
Occasionally I hear an answer, to this effect: "You don't see everything. You see only the tiny spot on which you stand, and yes, it's in disarray. That's partly your own doing. I am asserting my authority and I will prevail, but not until you (and the rest of creation, but I speak now mainly of you) trust and follow me. I won't compel you. I rule not with force, but with the power of love freely chosen. You're getting there, but you're not there yet. There are signs of my rule all around you, and you recognize them as you trust and follow me."
PRAY for the Diocese of Chester (York, England)
Ps 47 or 93; Acts 1:1-11; Luke 24:44-53
View the daily Lectionary Readings at Satucket.com.
Or view the Bible passages at Biblegateway.com.
A Meditation for Pentecost
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