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You remember the Acts of the Apostles. The book begins with the Ascension of Jesus. After that, the Apostles receive the Holy Spirit and they begin to “act” just as Jesus did before his resurrection. They preached like Jesus, they cured people like Jesus, and they got the authorities upset like Jesus. It is almost as if we don’t need Jesus anymore because the disciples are so good at imitating their Lord. That is why Jesus ascended. So that we could continue to do his work.

My friend went to one or the Stanley Cup games. He said it was a thrilling experience. He brought back a “fan towel” from the game. When the Bruins scored a goal the fan waves the “fan towel” in the air to celebrate. I thought how much better if it were a hockey stick instead. Think of what it would be like to score a goal during the Stanley Cup. What a thrill that would be. Instead of being in the stands watching the game, you would be on the ice playing the game.

That is exactly what happens when Jesus ascended to the Father. We are no longer fans watching all the great works and words of Jesus. We are now players, not fans. True, players do get beat up on the ice by the opponent, but when they score and win, they are in a different place of glory. So remember, God wants us to be players in his plan, not spectators.

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