Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 46: What do you mean by saying, “He ascended to heaven”?
Answer: That Christ, while His disciples watched, was lifted up from the earth to heaven and remains there on our behalf until He comes again to judge the living and the dead.
Scripture:
“And when He had said these things, as they were looking on, He was lifted up, and a cloud took Him out of their sight.”
— Acts 1:9
Reflection: What Does Jesus’ Ascension Mean for Me?
Picture this: Jesus, the one who had walked on water, healed the sick, and risen from the dead, suddenly lifted off the ground. His disciples stood in awe, watching Him disappear into the clouds. It’s a scene full of mystery and wonder. But what does it mean for you and me today?
When Jesus ascended into heaven, He wasn’t leaving us behind or abandoning His work. Instead, He went to prepare a place for us (John 14:3) and now sits at the right hand of God, advocating for us. That means He’s like a big brother who’s always got your back—praying for you, rooting for you, and guiding you even when you feel lost.
For teenagers, life can sometimes feel overwhelming, lonely, or even unfair. You might wonder, Does anyone really get what I’m going through? Jesus does. Because He’s in heaven, He sees the bigger picture. His ascension reminds us that there’s more to life than just the here and now. You were created for something bigger: to glorify God and to live with Him forever.
How Do We Live Like This?
- Trust That Jesus Is in Control
When life feels chaotic—whether it’s drama at school, pressure at home, or questions about your future—remember that Jesus is reigning in heaven. His ascension shows us that He’s in charge, even when things seem out of control. - Look Forward to His Return
Jesus didn’t say goodbye forever. He promised to come back. Every time you see a sunrise or experience joy, let it remind you of the hope we have in Him. - Live for God’s Glory
Knowing that Jesus is in heaven changes how we live. Instead of getting stuck in distractions or negativity, we can focus on loving others, serving, and showing kindness—reflecting the light of Christ in our everyday actions.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank You for ascending to heaven and preparing a place for me. Sometimes life feels confusing or hard, but I trust that You’re in control. Help me to live with purpose, knowing that You see me, love me, and are coming back one day. Teach me to glorify You in all I do. Amen.
Challenge for the Week:
Every morning this week, look at the sky and remember Jesus’ ascension. Say a quick prayer thanking Him for being in control. Then, think about one way you can live for God’s glory—whether it’s encouraging a friend, helping at home, or standing up for what’s right.