Ascension Day

The Collect
Almighty God, whose blessed Son our Savior Jesus Christ ascended far above all heavens that he might fill all things: Mercifully give us faith to perceive that, according to his promise, he abides with his Church on earth, even to the end of the ages; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

or

Grant, we pray, Almighty God, that as we believe your only-begotten Son our Lord Jesus Christ to have ascended into heaven, so we may also in heart and mind there ascend, and with him continually dwell; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

The Psalm
93

The Readings
Acts 1:1-11     +     Ephesians 1:15-23     +     Luke 24:44-53

I pray that . . . you may know what is the hope to which he has called you . . . and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places . . .
~Ephesians 1:18-20

I don't pretend to know exactly what to make of this feast. And apparently that's okay, for even the Prayer Book provides two options for the collect of the day, emphasizing differing themes. There is not simply one way of understanding what is meant by that phrase in the creed, "he ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father."

But however it is understood, and whatever is meant, there is in this mystery a demonstration of God's power that extends beyond our easy grasp--indeed, the greatness of that power is immeasurable. But it is not intended to be a power we grasp. Rather, it is a power which catches us up in its sweep, carries us along like the mighty waters of the sea. It is the very same power of God that raised Jesus from the dead and exalted him on high, him who fills all in all. I will gladly accept the prayer, and pray also, that we may be ever more coming to understand and see ourselves as called to, and even now carried in, that glory.

Closing Prayer
God of all that is, thank you for calling us to yourself in Jesus. Help us to come to know you more and more, until all things are restored in him who fills all in all. Amen.