As I read the Ascension story of Jesus to heaven and all the beings awaiting His arrival, my heart just sang for joy and I prayed that I may be accounted worthy to see the heavenly country and all its peoples.
When John the Revelator was given a vision of heaven, Revelation 4:2–6 says that God the Father was there along with 24 elders and 4 beasts and many angels in Revelation 5:11. Perhaps this was the scene that awaited our Saviour when He ascended to heaven.
“There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son, the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion—all are there to welcome the Redeemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.” The Desire of Ages, 832.
What a welcoming party for Jesus! “But He waves them back. … He enters into the presence of His Father. He points to His wounded head, the pierced side, the marred feet; He lifts His hands, bearing the print of nails. He points to the tokens of His triumph; He presents to God the wave sheaf, those raised with Him as representatives of that great multitude who shall come forth from the grave at His second coming. …
“The voice of God is heard proclaiming that justice is satisfied. Satan is vanquished. … The Father’s arms encircle His Son, and the word is given, ‘Let all the angels of God worship Him’ (Hebrews 1:6).” Ibid.
The celebration began! “With joy unutterable, rulers and principalities and powers acknowledge the supremacy of the Prince of life.
The angel host prostrate themselves before Him, while the glad shout fills all the courts of heaven, ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing’ (Revelation 5:12).
Songs of triumph mingle with the music from angel harps, till heaven seems to overflow with joy and praise. Love has conquered. The lost is found.
Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming, ‘Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever’ (Revelation 5:13).” Ibid.
I want to show that kind of love and honor also to the One who risked all to save mankind. We have the opportunity to meet all of these beings! Are you preparing for that day? We cannot afford to miss it!
Heavenly Father: Prepare our hearts at this moment and every moment up to the time of that wonderful second coming of Jesus to this earth. We want to join that heavenly ascension, to be welcomed into the heavenly country. What a day that will be. We thank You for the wonderful opportunity You have spread out before us. Please keep us faithful for that day. Amen.