Document: /pub/resources/text/Our.Daily.Bread: db940512.TXT
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OUR DAILY BREAD                        Thursday, May 12,1994
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READ: John 16:7-15

       "ASCENSION DAY"

   It is to your advantage that I go away;
  for if I do  not  go away,
       the Helper will not come to you.

        - John 16:7

Four supernatural  events  have  kept  humanity  from  self-
destructing.   Like  beacons  of light across a storm-tossed
sea, these miracles have shown the way  of  salvation  to  a
world in despair.  We celebrate them on Christmas, Good Fri-
day, Easter, and Ascension Day.

Most of us recognize the  significance  of  Christ's  birth,
when  God  became  flesh;  the cross, when sin's penalty was
paid; and the resurrection, when the power of death was bro-
ken.   But  what  about His ascension?  Why is that event so
important?

Jesus' return to His Father affected the lives of  everyone,
believers and unbelievers alike.  After returning to heaven,
He sent the Spirit, who would show people their need  for  a
Savior  (John  16:8).  Jesus said that the Spirit would also
be the believer's Helper (v.7) and  Teacher  (14:17;  16:13-
15).

Had Christ remained on this earth  following  His  resurrec-
tion,  His  continuing ministry would have been limited.  He
would not have  accomplished  what  He  is  presently  doing
through the Holy Spirit.

Ascension Day reminds us that our exalted Lord is  not  only
continuing His ministry for us, but through the Spirit He is
also calling sinners to Himself.

Author:  Dennis J. De Haan

 Christ the Lord has sent the Spirit
 To convict  of  sin  and pride
 And  to  lead us to the Savior,
 Who for us was crucified.      - Dennis J. De Haan

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
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The Holy Spirit  not only comforts saints
   but also convicts sinners.

The Bible in One Year:  Psalms 94-96

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