Instead of sorrow at His leaving, the disciples returned with great joy and praise.
“And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.”Luke 24:52-53 (KJV)
What does “Great joy” mean in Luke 24:52-53?
Luke says the disciples worshipped Jesus and went back to Jerusalem with great joy. They spent their days in the temple, praising and blessing God.
Going deeper
You might expect the disciples to feel loss when Jesus left, but Luke tells the opposite. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. They understood now what had happened. The resurrection and ascension had answered their fear. Joy was not a decoration on their faith. It was the natural response to what God had done.
Worship and joy often go together. When we take time to recall what God has done, thanksgiving rises. Try making joy a discipline this week. Begin your day by naming three things you are glad about, and praise God for them. Sing or hum a hymn as you work. Notice how praise lifts your spirit. The disciples were waiting for the Spirit's power, and they waited joyfully. We can wait that way too. Praise is a good place to begin again, whatever the day has held.
Reflect
What three things could you praise God for today with joy?
Pray
Lord, thank You for the joy of knowing You. Fill me with praise, and let my waiting be full of gladness. In Jesus' name, amen.
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