The Power of Resurrection, Ascension, and Return: Living in Light of Christ's Victory

In the grand narrative of Christianity, three pivotal events stand out as cornerstones of faith: the resurrection of Jesus, His ascension to heaven, and His promised return. These events, far from being mere historical footnotes, carry profound implications for how we understand our world, our purpose, and our hope for the future.

The Resurrection: Victory Over Death

The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ is arguably the most revolutionary event in human history. It's not just about a man coming back from the dead; it's about God making a way when there seemed to be no way. The resurrection declares loudly that God always gets the last word. Political corruption, religious hypocrisy, death, grief, and doubt – none of these have the final say. In raising Jesus from the dead, God brought victory from apparent failure and poured out forgiveness and redemption where there was once only sin and shame.

But what does this mean for us today? If Jesus Christ is risen from the dead, then everything is on the table. Healing from disease, freedom from addiction, and recovery from trauma are possibilities brought to life by His resurrection. The Apostle Paul stated, "The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Corinthians 15:56-57).

This victory isn't just a future hope; it's a present reality. We don't have to live as prisoners to our enemy or walk around in bondage and condemnation. The resurrection power of Christ is available to us now, offering freedom, healing, and transformation.

The Ascension: Filling the World with His Presence

While we often focus on the resurrection, the ascension of Jesus is equally significant. Far from being Jesus "going home" or leaving us behind, the ascension is about Jesus taking His rightful place on the throne of the universe.

When Jesus told His disciples it was good for Him to go away, they were understandably confused. How could His absence be better than His presence? But Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, enabling His presence to fill the world in a more personal and powerful way than if He had remained physically on earth.

The ascension isn't about absence; it's about presence. It means that anyone, anywhere, at any time can experience the personal presence of God through the Holy Spirit. As the book of Ephesians puts it, Christ ascended "in order to fill the whole universe" (Ephesians 4:10).

This filling of the world with Christ's presence through the Spirit is what empowers the church to serve and love people. When we reach out to our communities, serve our cities, or show kindness in our workplaces, we do so because the ascended Christ has given us His Spirit and empowered us for this very purpose.

The Return: Setting All Things Right

The final piece of this triumphant triptych is the promised return of Christ. This isn't about revenge or merely punishing the wicked. Instead, Christ's return is intimately connected with His reign and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

When we think of judgment, we often think only in terms of punishment. But God's judgment is also about restoration – putting things right, making things as they should be. The return of Christ will bring about the final rectification of all that is broken in our world.

Psalm 89 tells us that "righteousness and justice are the foundation of [God's] throne." This pairing of righteousness and justice is a common theme throughout Scripture when discussing God's rule. It speaks to a perfect balance of moral rightness and equitable treatment for all.

The book of Revelation gives us a glimpse of what this looks like: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away" (Revelation 21:4). This is the hope we look forward to – a world where everything is made new, where the effects of sin and death are finally and fully reversed.

Living in Light of These Truths

1. Embrace the Victory

Because of the resurrection, we can live with confidence that God's power is greater than any obstacle we face. Whatever challenges come our way, we know that our worst day will not be our last day.

2. Welcome His Presence

The ascension reminds us that Christ's presence, through the Holy Spirit, is always with us. We can lean into this reality, seeking His guidance and drawing on His strength in every situation.

3. Live with Hope

Knowing that Christ will return to set all things right gives us an unshakeable hope. Even in the face of injustice or suffering, we can hold onto the promise that one day, all will be made new.

4. Join His Mission

As those filled with Christ's Spirit, we're called to be part of His work in the world. How can we bring glimpses of His kingdom – of righteousness and justice – into our communities today?

The story of Christ's resurrection, ascension, and return isn't just ancient history or future prophecy. It's a living reality that can transform how we see the world and how we live our lives today. As we grasp these truths more deeply, may we be inspired to live with greater faith, hope, and love, eagerly anticipating the day when Christ's kingdom will be fully realized and will have no end.

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