After Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead on the third day, he met over 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:5).

Although these encounters had an encouraging character, nothing earth-shattering happened. Jesus’ disciples went their own way again.

Jesus sent all the disciples back to Jerusalem.

The expectation of the disciples was great that Jesus would now set up the kingdom. But Jesus did not want to set a time for this and promised them divine power through the Holy Spirit, who would lead them into the whole world (Acts 1:6-8).

As Jesus ascended into heaven before their eyes on the Mount of Olives and disappeared from their sight through a cloud, Jesus opened a new chapter.

Jesus finished his first commission on earth. He went bodily to a real otherworldly place where he promised to prepare place to live for his followers (John 14:2).

He is now seated at the right hand of the heavenly Father (Mark 16:19 / Acts 7:56).

From there he will come again to set up God’s kingdom visibly.

Jesus taught his disciples that there is a real transcendent world and has now entered it. God’s presence is experienced anew through the Holy Spirit.

The followers of Jesus live in the expectation of being accepted into this other world. They look forward to the return of Jesus when he will set up his kingdom in glory.

Perhaps the Ascension Day has become a symbol that we too want to go to another world in prayer and then come back with new eyes.