5/16/2021 - The Ascended Lord Gives His Witnesses Power
THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD
Forty days ago, the darkness of Lent was dispelled by the light of Easter. For forty days, the Church has cried, “Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!” But forty days after Jesus rose from the dead, he departed from his disciples and was enthroned in glory in heaven. From heaven he rules all things as our Lord and King. Today we celebrate the day he ascended (“went up”) to glory. But he promised not to leave his disciples alone. He promised to send them the Holy Spirit. They waited ten more days, and then on the Festival of Pentecost (“fiftieth day”) they saw Jesus’ promise made good. Next Sunday, we will celebrate that 50th day, the day of Pentecost.
CONFIRMATION SUNDAY
In our second service, seven young people will publicly confirm their faith in Jesus Christ. They will be welcomed to partake of Holy Communion. All of us who are members of Redeemer went through a rite of confirmation either as children or adults. Let us use the service this morning to reaffirm our dedication to our Savior and our use of God’s word and sacraments.
Rylie Rose Follendorf Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9
Brenda Rose Magallanes My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. - John 10:27–28
Jadyn Paul Miller Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5–6
Benjamin Daniel Webster I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me! - Job 19:25–27
Sarah Marguerite Weinstein No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. - Hebrews 12:11
Sophia Elaine Weinstein So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. - Isaiah 41:10
James Alexander Willis Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. - Revelation 2:10
First reading: Acts 1:1-11 You will be my witnesses
Second reading: Ephesians 4:7-16 The ascended Jesus gives gifts to his Church
Gospel: Luke 24:44-53 Jesus ascends into heaven
Sermon text: Ephesians 4:7-16 Sermon theme: God's Gifts to the Church
Watch live on our YouTube channel Sunday at 10:45am.
Download or view the service folder for Sunday, May 16, 2021.