Reading: Acts 1.6-11 NLT

So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?”

He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!”

Prayer: Lord Jesus – You reign as High King of heaven… and yet, you are personally active and engaged in my life here on earth. Give me the confidence and courage to live boldly as your faithful servant… knowing that my labors for you are not in vain. Comfort and hearten all who live with pain and suffering… all  who cry out to you today. Welcome them into your presence, intercede for them, and grant them the desires of their hearts… according to your mercy and grace. Thank you for the blessed hope of a glorious future when you return as Judge and King… no more injustice, suffering, or death. Your Kingdom will be an everlasting Kingdom of truth, righteousness and love. And best of all, I will live with you there, my King… forever and ever. Amen.

Hymn: “Crown Him – Majesty” – Chris Tomlin w/ Kari Jobe