He Rules & Reigns!

We love Christmas. We cherish Easter. These two events mark the glorious beginning and climactic victory of Jesus’ earthly ministry: His birth and His resurrection. But if we stop there, we miss something essential—something that gives both Christmas and Easter their power and purpose. That “something” is the Ascension of Jesus and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

And yet, these moments are too often overlooked.

Beyond the Manger and the Empty Tomb

It’s easy to embrace Jesus as a baby in a manger. He’s innocent, approachable, soft. It’s also powerful to reflect on Jesus on the cross—humble, sacrificial, broken for our sins. Both images stir the heart.

But what about Jesus ascended—exalted, glorified, and seated at the right hand of God, full of authority and power? That image challenges us. It reminds us that He’s not just a Savior; He’s King. And that reality changes everything.

Acts 1 shows us this transition from Jesus’ earthly presence to His heavenly rule. After His resurrection, Jesus spent 40 days appearing to His disciples, proving He was alive, and preparing them for what came next. Then, He ascended into heaven, taking His rightful place as Lord over all.

But before He left, He gave His followers a mission—and a promise.

The Mission: Be Witnesses

When the disciples asked if Jesus was finally going to restore the kingdom to Israel, they were still focused on the political. They wanted the Messiah to kick out the Romans and reign in Jerusalem. But Jesus had something bigger in mind.

He said:

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

That promise is still in effect.

He wasn’t just interested in restoring a kingdom to Israel—He came to establish a kingdom without borders. A kingdom made up of people from every tribe, nation, and tongue. A kingdom that would be powered not by politics, but by the Holy Spirit.

The Power: The Spirit Within Us

Why does the Ascension matter so much? Because Jesus had to leave for the Spirit to come (John 16:7). The Spirit isn’t a consolation prize. He is God’s own presence dwelling in us, empowering us to live new lives and to be Jesus’ hands and feet in the world.

This changes everything. We don’t just believe in God from afar—we live with Him within. We’re no longer bound by shame or paralyzed by fear. We are filled with power, love, and hope.

When Jesus ascended, He didn’t just disappear—He began to rule. And when the Spirit descended at Pentecost, the Church was born in fire and boldness. That same Spirit lives in believers today.

Living Under His Authority

Here’s the truth many of us struggle with: We don’t like authority. We celebrate Jesus when He’s a baby or a teacher or even a miracle worker. But when Jesus says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18), we get uncomfortable.

Because authority demands obedience. Submission. Trust.

But here’s the good news: Jesus is the only authority we can fully trust. He never abuses His power. His commands are not burdensome. He always works for our good. In over 50 years of walking with Him, one thing is absolutely clear: Jesus is faithful.

When we resist His authority, we suffer. But when we surrender to Him, we experience transformation. We don’t just get better behavior—we receive a new identity.

The New Life in Christ

The resurrection means that sin and death have been defeated. The ascension means that Jesus now reigns. And Pentecost means we are empowered to live out His mission.

• We are no longer under the power of shame and blame.

• We are no longer powerless against sin.

• We are no longer isolated or alone.

We have hope. Real, unshakable hope.

Like a young girl in rehab who finds strength from another’s testimony, we can walk alongside others, telling them, “I couldn’t walk or talk either, but look what God has done in me.” That’s what it means to be a witness.

Don’t Settle for Less

The disciples were still hoping for a throne in Jerusalem. Jesus was launching a global movement. Sometimes we’re like that too—hoping for a smaller blessing, while God wants to give us the Kingdom.

We pick up axes, saws, and hammers, trying to fix the world with our own strength. But only the fire of the Spirit can melt hearts and reshape lives. That’s why Jesus said: “Wait for the Spirit.” Don’t act without Him. Don’t serve without Him. Don’t live disconnected from His power.

A heater won’t warm your home unless it’s plugged in. Neither will we bring transformation unless we stay connected to the source.

Power + Love = True Change

Power without love is harsh and dangerous.

Love without power is sentimental and weak.

But when God’s power works through God’s love, the world changes.

So plug in. Stay connected. Let His Spirit shape you and lead you.

Jesus is not just your Savior—He’s your King.

One Last Thought

At the end of Acts 1, two angels appear to the disciples as they stare up into the sky. They say, “Why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back…”

He’s coming back. He hasn’t forgotten. He hasn’t abandoned His people. His kingdom is still advancing, and you are invited to be part of it.

So don’t just celebrate Christmas. Don’t just remember Easter. Live in the power of the Ascension and the fire of Pentecost.

Because Jesus is large and in charge. And He’s ready to work in you, through you, and for the world He loves.