Following Jesus · Part 40 of 40 · 3 min
Jesus Ascends to Heaven
Jesus spent time with his friends after rising from the dead. He helped them understand the Scriptures and the work ahead.
One day he led them out toward Bethany. They would soon receive help from the Holy Spirit and become his witnesses.
Their footsteps crossed the hillside.
They were to share what they had seen and learned, beginning in Jerusalem and reaching far beyond it.
Jesus lifted his hands and blessed them. Then he was taken up toward heaven, and a cloud hid him from their sight.
The friends stood looking upward. Two messengers in white told them that this same Jesus would return.
Their Teacher was no longer standing beside them, but his love and promise remained.
The hillside trees stirred in the breeze.
They returned to Jerusalem with great joy. They worshiped God and waited for the help Jesus had promised.
His story on earth had changed their lives. Now they had a story of love and hope to share.
Jesus still invites us to trust him, learn from his words, and care for others. His ascension reminds us that he is our living Savior.
We can look forward to his return while doing the good work that is before us today.
Retelling of Luke 24:50–53; Acts 1:6–11.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 87. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Hope
- Service
A verse to remember
“will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.”
Acts 1:11 · excerptNKJV
- What did the two messengers tell the friends looking toward heaven?
- How do you think they felt returning to Jerusalem with Jesus’ promise?
- What good thing can we do while looking forward to his return?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
The Promise and the Path
Remember the promise that Jesus will return. Then each person chooses something kind they can do today while waiting, such as helping put a game away or keeping someone company who is alone. Put one of those ideas into practice. Talk about how waiting for Jesus also means continuing to love and help others each day.
Try it today: We can remember Jesus’ promise while caring for the people around us today.
More stories with these values
Coloring page
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
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