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Ephesians 1:15-23 New International Version (NIV)
Thanksgiving and Prayer
15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
Today we remember Jesus Ascension from the Mount of Olives after having spent 40 days after the resurrection teaching the disciples and proving he was alive.
Why is it important? It means a number of things for us
Jesus is in the place of authority over all other powers
Jesus is the man in heaven and represents us before the Father
Jesus is in the place from which he sends the Holy Spirit to help us
Jesus is in the place from which he will return to take us home
Our salvation is secure in who is and what he has achieved
Our walk can be steadfast as he watches over us and helps us
Our future is certain, an 'inheritance kept in heaven for us' (Peter), which will be fully realised when he comes again! Be encouraged!