Lifted to Reign | Psalm 110 & Acts 1 | 5 Devotions on Christ’s Ascension and Our Calling
The Ascension of Jesus is often treated as a footnote to the resurrection, but Scripture presents it as a powerful turning point in redemptive history. Jesus wasn’t just lifted from the earth—He was enthroned in heaven, reigning at the right hand of the Father. From His exalted position, He sends His Spirit, empowers His people, and advances His kingdom to the ends of the earth.
These five short devotions, based on the sermon “Lifted to Reign,” are designed to help you reflect on the ongoing significance of the Ascension. Each day will draw from a different passage of Scripture to explore what it means to live under the reign of Christ and to step boldly into the mission He has given us.
Let your heart be lifted as you remember: Christ is not absent—He is reigning.
Day 1: Christ Reigns Now
Scripture: Psalm 110:1–2
Reflection: We often imagine Jesus’ reign as something that will begin when He returns. Psalm 110 reminds us His rule is already underway. From the moment of His Ascension, Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father—not because His work was unfinished, but because His victory over sin and death was complete. He reigns even now “in the midst of His enemies.” That means He reigns in our chaos, our uncertainty, and our sorrow. You’re not waiting for Jesus to take control. He already has it.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me live today in light of Your rule. When the world feels out of control, remind me that You are seated, not scrambling. You are reigning, not retreating. Let that truth steady my heart and strengthen my trust. Amen.
Day 2: The Mission Has Begun
Scripture: Matthew 28:18–20
Reflection: In Acts 1, the disciples stand staring into the sky until two angels remind them that Jesus will return. But until then, there’s work to do. Matthew 28 echoes that call: because Jesus has all authority, therefore we go. The Ascension isn't the pause between Jesus' work and return—it’s the launch pad of the church’s mission. His absence isn't abandonment. It’s the beginning of global witness, powered by His presence through the Spirit.
Prayer: Ascended King, You have called us to go—not in our strength, but in Your authority. Give me eyes today to see where You're sending me, courage to step forward, and a heart eager to make Your name known. Amen.
Day 3: Your Kingdom Come
Scripture: Colossians 3:1–2
Reflection: We’re prone to live as if this world is all there is—chasing temporary things, fearing uncertainty, losing perspective. But Jesus' Ascension lifts our gaze. Paul reminds us: Christ is seated. He reigns. And because He is there, we set our hearts and minds there too. Kingdom-mindedness doesn’t mean detachment from life—it means engaging the world as those shaped by heaven’s priorities. The Ascension doesn't pull us away from the world; it reorients us within it.
Prayer: Father, set my heart where Christ is. When the troubles of this life distract me or weigh me down, lift my eyes to the throne. Let Your kingdom come more fully in me today—in my words, my choices, and my relationships. Amen.
Day 4: Empowered by the Spirit
Scripture: John 16:7
Reflection: The disciples couldn’t imagine anything better than having Jesus physically beside them. But Jesus insists the Spirit’s presence within us is even better. His Ascension makes Pentecost possible. We are not left to carry out our calling on our own. The same Spirit who empowered the apostles to speak with boldness and joy now dwells in us. Jesus is not watching from a distance—He is working through His people by His Spirit.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, fill me today. Remind me that I’m not alone and that I don’t walk in my own strength. Help me to be sensitive to Your guidance and bold in the mission Jesus has given me. Amen.
Day 5: Until He Comes Again
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:16–18
Reflection: The Ascension is not the end of the story. It’s the promise of a return. The same Jesus who was lifted up will one day come down in glory. That hope fuels our mission, strengthens our resolve, and comforts us in sorrow. He will return to right every wrong, judge His enemies, and gather His people forever. Until that day, we worship, witness, and work—not in fear, but in joyful expectation.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me live in the tension between already and not yet. Give me patient hope as I wait for Your return, and urgency as I work for Your kingdom. Help me encourage others with the truth that You will come again. Amen.
