Friday Prayer: Preparing for Ascension

Jesus, I'm in these forty days between your resurrection and ascension - the time you used to prove you were alive, teach about the kingdom, and prepare your disciples for what came next. You're doing the same for me, even though I live two thousand years later.

Thank you that resurrection wasn't the end of the story. You rose to prove death was defeated, then you ascended to reign as Lord and send the Spirit. You didn't abandon your disciples when you ascended - you empowered them. You haven't abandoned me either.

Prepare me for whatever comes next in my life. Teach me about your kingdom. Prove to me that resurrection is real. Get me ready for Spirit-empowered living and mission. I know you're not physically present, but through the Spirit you're more present than if you were limited to one location. Help me trust that your ascension was gift, not abandonment. You left to prepare a place for me. Come back and take me there when the time is right.