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Understanding Why We Celebrate Ascension Day
Many Christians wonder, Why do we celebrate Ascension Day? This day, observed 40 days after Easter, marks the moment when Jesus Christ ascended into heaven. It is a reminder of His divine mission and the promise of the Holy Spirit.
The Biblical Foundation of Ascension Day
In Acts 1:3, we read that Jesus appeared to his disciples over forty days after his resurrection. Then, in front of them, He was taken up into heaven. The Apostolic Creed affirms this truth when we confess: “He ascended into heaven.”
Understanding why we celebrate Ascension Day begins here, with the eyewitness account of Jesus’s followers. Just as they saw Him rise, we celebrate His return to the Father with both body and spirit.
A Day Celebrated by All Denominations
Ascension Day is not limited to one denomination. It is an ecumenical celebration across the Christian world, recognized by Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant churches alike.
The Latin word Ascensio means that Jesus ascended by His divine power. Unlike Elijah or Moses, who were taken up into heaven, Jesus rose by His authority. That’s a key part of why we celebrate Ascension Day.
The Promise That Followed the Ascension
Before ascending, Jesus gave the apostles a promise: He would be with them always (Matthew 28:18-20). He also promised a helper—the Holy Spirit—who would come at Pentecost.
So, why do we celebrate Ascension Day? Because it marks the fulfillment of one promise and the beginning of another. Jesus ascended, but He didn’t abandon us. He prepared the way for the Holy Spirit and for our eventual reunion with Him.
A Short Prayer for Ascension Day
God,
Thank you for sending Your Son so that I might live redeemed.
Not judged by my sins but saved through His sacrifice.
Today I celebrate His ascension into heaven,
And I wait for the day He returns.
Let me be judged not for what I have done,
But for what Christ has done for me.
Amen.
Next blog post
Our next blog post will be published on Saturday, May 16, 2015. It will cover a very different topic, but one that is equally rooted in Christian life and faith.
Until then, stay strong in the faith,
The Chi Rho Dating Group
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