This sonnet is is for Ascension Day and is based upon Luke 24:50-53 and Acts 1:1-14 regarding Jesus’ ascension into heaven on the 40th day after Easter.

The question why Jesus ascended is a worthy question. It seems that so much could have be dealt with and handled if he had stayed. Aside from his saying that it was needful for him to go so that he might send us the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, it is important to see what his going means for us. Rather than grieving his departure, we may enjoy a deep consolation because of his Ascension. For though he is not physically present with us here, we are spiritually present with him there. Our life, as Paul says in Colossians 3, is “hid with Christ in God.” The author of Hebrews says that the reality of Jesus ascension is in fact, an anchor for the soul.

You may listen to me read the sonnet via the player below.

Had you not gone away, ascended on high,
You would have remained and still be here;
The tale of your rising, none deny—
Proof forever, age to age, year to year.
Had you not gone our faith would now be sight,
And seeing, believing, for all could see;
You could heal, stop hate, give wisdom and light
So why ascend? Why go? Why leave us be?

I must go, and bear what’s finished to heav’n
Take your life with me, hide you in love
From whence I’ll rule, sit in royal session,
Pour out my Spirit of fire from above.
Secure as an anchor, I hold you fast
For you’re with me now, till I come at last.

© Randy Edwards 2017.
This poem is for Christ’s church. If it is helpful, please feel free to copy or reprint in church bulletins, read aloud, or repost. I only ask that an attribution be cited to myself (Randall Edwards) and this blog (backwardmutters.com). Thanks.
artwork: James Tissot  (1836–1902), The Ascension; between 1886 and 1894; opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper.