The angels turned the disciples from staring at the sky to getting on with their calling.
“And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”Acts 1:10-11 (KJV)
What does “Gazing” mean in Acts 1:10-11?
Two men in white appear and ask the disciples why they are looking up. They add that Jesus will return in the same way they saw Him go.
Going deeper
The disciples stood staring at the sky where Jesus had disappeared. Then two men in white apparel appeared and asked a gentle question: ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? They were not scolding. They were nudging the disciples out of wonder and into action. Jesus had given them work to do, and the Spirit was coming to empower them. And the angels added a promise: this same Jesus shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go.
Christians hold this promise with humility, since we do not know the day. But the promise gives our present work meaning. The disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy and got ready. We can do the same. Between His going and His coming, there is work to do, love to give, and people to serve. Ask yourself what would change if you lived as one who is waiting expectantly, not idly, for the return of Jesus.
Reflect
What would change if you lived as someone waiting expectantly, not idly, for Jesus?
Pray
Lord Jesus, thank You for the promise that You will return. Keep me faithful and busy with Your work until that day. In Jesus' name, amen.
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