The Ascension
Matthew 28:16-20; Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:6-11
This week our children are learning about the ascension of Jesus. This is one of the most important parts of the gospel accounts, but is often forgotten in our observance of the death and resurrection of Jesus. But his ascension in the flesh into the very presence of God the Father offers us a special foundation for hope for our lives eternally. If he, resurrected and glorified, enters into the presence of God, then we know that his promise to prepare our eternal home is true, and we too will one day be physically in the presence of the Lord. Here are some questions to help discuss this story with your children.
- Why did Jesus go to be with his Father? Why couldn’t he just stay with his friends? He had promised to prepare their eternal home. He was going to prepare and show us the way to be with God just like he was going to be with God.
- Jesus’ friends were sad and confused that he would not stay with them. What did Jesus promise to do for them? Who would he send to be with them when he left? He promised to give them his Holy Spirit. He would be their Comforter and Helper.
- Did Jesus leave forever? Will he ever come back? Yes. There were two angels standing with the disciples when Jesus ascended. They reminded them that Jesus would one day come back in the same way he left.
Jesus has ascended to the right hand of the Father and has been given all authority.
Self-Control: I do the things I am supposed to do, even when I want to do something else.
Self-control is one of the most important traits we can pass along to our children. We live in a culture that encourages us to indulge and to give in to whatever it is that makes us happy. But Scripture and our experience teaches us otherwise. Biblical wisdom teaches us that there is greater freedom and fulfillment when we exercise control over our desires and do the things that are less self-centered and more other-focused.
Galatians 6:7
Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he reap.
