“When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them.  While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven.  Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy.  And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.” (Luke 24:50-53)

     Jesus left the disciples with “great joy” because they knew Jesus was alive, and he would continue to be with them in Spirit as he ascended to heaven.  The disciples had much to do in a world that needs a Savior, and because of Jesus, they had a support system that was second to none. 

     If we have accepted Jesus into our hearts and lives, we can also have this joy, because we can be certain of the existence of a living God who is with us and works in our lives.  Let’s do as the early disciples did and continue on the mission that Jesus set before us.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray for the folks who are missing out on the joy of your salvation.  Help us to reach them so that they can have full knowledge of how much you love them.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.