When Jesus knew his time had come, his followers he drew near
And gave this word to comfort them and drive away their last fear.
“The Holy Spirit’s guiding power will surely come upon you,
And to the world my Word you’ll take; my witness lives within you.”
When this he said, they watched, and lo! their Lord was lifted upward!
In holy cloud he was caught up and no more was his voice heard.
While this their eyes were following with wonder and amazement,
Two bright-robed men had drawn nearby to bear a witness heaven-sent:
“Why do you stand here looking up? This Jesus you have witnessed
Will yet return in this same way, all sanctified and heaven-blessed.”
TEXT: Charles Spence Freeman, May 2021, after Acts 1:1-11
MUSIC: Suggested tune ST. COLUMBA, Irish melody.
See our Jesus now ascending, heaven-bound for us to plead!
Now, his earthly work completed, he for us will intercede
For our pains and for our sufferings, for our want and daily need.
See his body lifted upward, wounded hands and feet and side!
Every scar is now exalted, every wound is sanctified.
Crucified and then arisen, now forever glorified!
His disciples upward gazing, mute in wonder at the sight;
Now their Friend and true Companion from their side has taken flight.
Now his call is their commission as he takes to holy height.
Praise to God the great Creator; praise to God, redeeming Son;
Praise to God, sustaining Spirit, one in three and three in one.
So it was in the beginning, and shall be ‘til time is done.
TEXT: Charles Spence Freeman, May 2021, after Luke 24:36-53.
MUSIC: Suggested tune WESTMINSTER ABBEY, Henry Purcell, 1680; adapt. Ernest Hawkins, 1843.
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