Jesus' last act on earth was to lift His hands and bless His friends.
“And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.”Luke 24:50-51 (KJV)
What does “Parting blessing” mean in Luke 24:50-51?
Luke ends his Gospel with Jesus lifting His hands in blessing as He is carried up. The blessing is the last thing the disciples see.
Going deeper
Luke's account of the ascension is brief and beautiful. Jesus led His disciples out as far as Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. The last picture the disciples have of Him is not a departing figure but a blessing one. His parting was not a withdrawal of love. It was love expressed in a final gesture.
There is comfort in the thought that the risen Christ is still blessing His people. Those raised hands are an image of His ongoing care. Today, receive that blessing for yourself. Then pass it on. Bless someone near you with a word of encouragement, a prayer, or a small act of kindness. Blessing others is one of the simplest ways to continue His work in the world. A blessing given at the end is a blessing meant to last.
Reflect
Whom could you bless today with an encouraging word or prayer?
Pray
Lord Jesus, thank You for blessing Your people. Let me receive Your blessing today, and make me a blessing to others. In Jesus' name, amen.
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