Devotional Thoughts on Ephesians 1:16-23 for Ascension, May 10, 2018

It had been a long day. Work demanded our full attention leaving us on the go from the time we started until we left. Once we got home the kids beg for help with their homework, maybe even some projects they waited for the last minute to complete. The refrigerator is empty, so what will we have for dinner? The house needs to be cleaned up. The yard needs attention. Once things are in some semblance of order, all we want to do is sit down. We seek out our favorite chair and put our feet up. We try to let the stress of the day melt away. We feel so exhausted that it might not even be long before we doze off.

We confess in the Apostles’ Creed that Jesus ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. Could we blame Jesus if all he wanted to do was rest? He defeated sin, death, and the devil. He lived a perfect life. He rose from the dead. Now, he ascended on high to sit at God’s right hand. If anyone deserved rest from all their work, Jesus would most definitely fit the bill. He deserves it. He has accomplished all he came to do.

Yes, he accomplished all the things needed upon the earth, but rest was the last thing on Jesus’ mind. God exalted Jesus to a place of power. He seated him at his right hand. Now, at the name of Jesus all people shout their praises to him. Jesus received the place of honor and the name that is above every other name.

Listen once more to this verse, “God also placed all things under his feet and made him head over everything for the church” (Ephesians 1:22). Do we always see the comfort in these words? Our God reigns! Our God rules! Our God guides and directs all things as the great ruler of this world.

If this is the case, why do we so often live as if God is not in control? We let the worries of our life overtake us. We try to take control of all things only to have it all fall apart. Fear fills our mind as the great unknown of the future.

We do not need to doubt or wonder. Jesus has all things under his feet. Worry does not have to overtake us for God will provide. Even though things might not as planned, we know that God has it all mapped out. Fear of the future can be gone for we know who holds the future in his hands.

Not only does Jesus hold authority over our life and all its events, Jesus also is ruling all things for the benefit of his church, which is his body. We take great care of our physical bodies. We will nourish our bodies with food and water so that we can function. We exercise so that our muscles and joints will be strong. We go to the doctor to help prevent illnesses or receive help when our bodies are weak. We do not want to destroy our own bodies. We will take care of them.

The church is the body of Christ. Jesus gave all for the church in his life and death. Jesus is not going to let the body of believers fumble around against the temptations and assaults of Satan. Jesus will defend his body from Satan’s schemes. Jesus will raise up faithful messengers for the continuing edification of his body, the church. Jesus heals the wounds of sin with his message of forgiveness.

Jesus is in control. Jesus reigns. Jesus will guard and guide all things for us. Jesus’ ascension assures of this wonderful fact. We live in full confidence that he will take care of us in all things. Jesus is our King, our King with great power to govern all things for the benefit of his children and his church.

So, we can rest securely. The work has been done. The power is not ours but the Lord’s. He has all things under his control. He will be there to guide the church, his body, through his gracious rule. Put up your feet. Relax. Jesus has all things under his feet for our benefit. Amen.