Thou shalt rejoice in the LORD, and shalt glory in the Holy One of Israel. (Isaiah 41:16 KJV) and St. Paul writes to the Philippians: “Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.” (Philippians 3:1 KJV)
That too is a glorious promise. Especially to those, who don’s see much of this today, but still put their hope in God’s faithfulness and truthfulness. St. Paul knows that there’s a lot that goes against this in this life even as we go about our daily callings under the cross and care of our dear Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. That is why he reminds his readers so insistantly: Rejoice in the Lord! Remember all that he has done in creation, salvation and sanctification. Recall his underserved miracles and mighty works and wonders, which he has carried out from the very beginning and never tires of doing – even today and in future. Especially the redemntion and salvation worked by his Son Jesus Christ show the unfathomable power and creativity, goodness and love of our heavenly Father. The Holy Spirit, whom he sends to his people, reminds them of all these glorious doings of our Lord, which are meant for us and our salvation, healing and fulfilment. All his inspiration and workings are aimed at promoting Christ and his holy Christian Church – so that people like you and me would rejoice in the Lord and glorify his beautiful name – now and always and until he again returns in glory and we’ll at last behold, what we have here believed by his grace and mercy. Amen.
On Christ’s Ascension I Now Build
By: Josua Wegelin
On Christ’s ascension I now build
The hope of my ascension;
This hope alone has always stilled
All doubt and apprehension;
For where the head is, there as well
I know his members are to dwell
When Christ will come and call them.
Since Christ returned to claim his throne,
Great gifts for me obtaining,
My heart will rest in him alone,
No other rest remaining;
For where my treasure went before,
There all my thoughts will ever soar
To still their deepest yearning.
Oh, grant, dear Lord, this grace to me,
Recalling your ascension,
That I may serve you faithfully,
Adorning your redemption;
And then, when all my days will cease,
Let me depart in joy and peace
In answer to my pleading.
Hymn # 150 from Lutheran Worship
Author: Etliche Christlichen Lieder Tune: Nun Freut Euch 1st Published in: 1524
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