Today is the fortieth day after Easter, and the celebration of Christ's ascension into heaven.
"And they...returned to Jerusalem with great joy" (Luke 24:52).
Twice in his Gospel, Luke has the words "great joy." The first time is Christmas: "And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy'" (Luke 2:10). The second time is Ascension. Today is a day for joy, great joy, a joy that knows no end!
Reason says that the disciples should have been sad at their dear Lord's departure. But their faith sees and thinks differently. Their faith is so full of His birth, death, resurrection, Word, forgiveness, and promise of the Holy Spirit, there is no room left over for sadness.
May the same be true of your heart!
JOY has been defined as "Jesus, Others, Yourself." Look first to your Savior. Then to the needs of your neighbor. And then you will find yourself - and the great joy of the Gospel!
