Major human achievements like the recent trip to the Moon unite people together and transcend differences. But what if we had something far greater and permanent to raise our humanity?

A sermon on the Ascension of Jesus Christ

Sermon quotes: But to go to Him and withdraw from us was this: to change and make immortal the mortal that he took from us and to lift into heaven that by which he was on earth for our sake. Who would not rejoice at this? -St. Augustine, 5th c.

That is why The days of this life are prolonged for us As a reprieve to reform our evil ways. -St. Benedict of Nursia, 6th c.

“The Ascension means that heaven is not merely a hope, but a present possession for the Church in [Jesus Christ].” -John Calvin, 16th c.

“There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry: ‘Mine!” -Abraham Kuyper, 19th c.

Sermon text: Luke 24:44-53 Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” 50 And he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51 While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven.* 52 And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53 and were continually in the temple blessing God.

Sermon Transcript Liturgy Bulletin

“Rocket Man” preached by Rev. Dr. Timothy R. LeCroy, Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 10:00AM at New Life Presbyterian Church in Ithaca, NY. Come see the beautiful Finger Lakes region, and worship God with us. www.newlifeithaca.org.

Sermon music is from “We Will Feast in the House of Zion” provided by Sandra McCracken and with her permission. www.sandramccracken.com.

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