Devotional Blog Tuesday, November 29

Devotional Blog Tuesday, November 29

Daily Devotional for Tuesday, November 29

The Ascension of Jesus

 

“He worked at the pier casting off our lines for the last time, and he wept, this man who had served shipboard with us for several years but could no longer do so. His time to carry on otherwise, had come. We had prepared him as best we could and now he was to follow instructions apart from our direct supervision. It was a sad moment but at the same time, a test for the future.” —Memoirs of a Missionary, Glen Knight
My family and I know how to prepare for departures. The sort of work we do requires it. We sail the waters of the western Pacific Ocean, reaching people on remote islands with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The billowing sails of the Missionary Ship Nativa can be seen by people who remain at port upon our departure, but before long, the sight vanishes beyond the horizon. In the same way, its sails can be seen well before we arrive at anchor off any island. Anticipation of that arrival builds as we approach the islanders’ homes and typically, men and young boys take to their canoes to meet us. What joy ensues when once our anchors splash down securely! We are often asked questions about what we have brought and how long we will stay. But the most poignant question comes later: “Pastor, when will you return?” We often see tears on islanders’ faces as we pray with them on the beach. Departures are difficult. I am always reminded that with every departure, there must be hope given for our coming again.
We can well understand the feelings of the Lord’s followers at His departure. They had been prepared. The time of testing was at hand. But their sadness needed to be tempered with a special promise!

 

 

Thought: The promise made of His returning was specific:
The same Jesus who went away is the One who shall return!

Glen Knight