Growing up within the charismatic church world, Ascension Day was never noted on the Christian calendar. Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection were big events to celebrate but not His ascension.
I suppose not being recognised by a public holiday was a contributing factor. But then the Day of Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit ten days later isn’t afforded a public holiday either, but still gets more attention. I guess that isn’t surprising especially within Pentecostal and charismatic groups.
Could another reason be that while Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost are about what Jesus did FOR US, the emphasis of His ascension is more on what we’re to do FOR HIM?
Ahem. Maybe this is a good reason not to overplay this one, especially as Jesus’ parting words have often been relegated to the Great Omission, rather than the Great Commission!
In the time between His resurrection and His ascension, Jesus spends a power-packed 40 days teaching on His favourite subject, the kingdom of God.
Before He leaves planet Earth, Jesus tells His disciples the Holy Spirit is going to take His place and give them the power needed to carry out His commission.
With the authority invested in His name and the power that will be in them through His Spirit, Jesus’ disciples are to continue His ministry, proclaiming, demonstrating, and advancing the gospel of God’s kingdom throughout the world.
2,000 years on . . . how well has the Church been doing with her Lord’s command?
Ahhh . . . maybe that’s the true reason we tend to downplay the significance of Ascension Day?!
(Photo by Joshua Eckstein on Unsplash)