Our readings in this series are from the book, What in Heaven Is Jesus Doing on Earth? This is a question, I suspect, that many, if not perhaps most, Christians could not confidently answer. Here is a brief excerpt from the Foreword on page 3:
“Courage, in many respects, is a matter of perspective. If our perspective on any situation suggests that we are alone in it, against difficult odds, our courage is likely to be less than if we see ourselves accompanied and supported by powers greater than the challenge before us. Courage is that disposition of the soul that moves us into the unknown, the uncertain, or even the improbable, full of conviction, confidence, and the expectation of success. And for the Christian, courage comes above all by seeing our lives within the larger, eternal framework, in which Jesus Christ is seated on His throne, working all things according to the counsel of His will, doing all things well, and working all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
“The Ascension and Session of our Lord Jesus Christ are among the most important, most exciting, most encouraging, and most neglected doctrines of all Scripture. The focus of studies on Jesus tends to be on His life, teaching, miracles, death, and resurrection; and this is as it should be. Because the image of Jesus that forms in our soul as we see Him in the days of His incarnation and suffering will be, in many ways, the image of Him that will come to mind when we pray, worship, or bear witness to Him.
“We should cherish that image, and seek always to make it sharper, clearer, and more the focus of our sincere love and devotion.”
Questions for Reflection or Discussion
- Would I describe myself as a courageous Christian? Why or why not?
- What is my current view of the Ascension and Session of our Lord Jesus? What does that have to do with me?
What in Heaven Is Jesus Doing on Earth? addresses this important theological question from a fresh point of view, which you’ll be hearing more about in subsequent podcasts. Order your copy of What in Heaven? either in book form or as a free PDF by going to The Ailbe Bookstore. This brief and lively book can spark some insightful and mutually edifying conversations. Don’t keep this to yourself. Forward today’s podcast to a friend and invite them to read and study with you as you discover the important implications of Jesus’ reign at the Father’s right hand.
T. M. Moore
