So now it’s the month of May. Historically, a time of celebration. May Queens would be crowned. We used to do it at the Vicarage Garden Party when I was first a Vicar. Children dance round the MayPole (I remember doing it as a child and often got the ribbon mixed up! Communist countries celebrate International Workers Day.

One celebration that occurs in May and has been rather forgotten is that of Ascension Day. This year it is on Thursday 14th May. One reason it is less remembered is that it occurs midweek, 40 days after the Resurrection. Often we emphasise Christ’s death and Resurrection but we must not forget the significance of the Ascension. In Hathern Church there is a stained glass panel showing Jesus suspended in mid air.

There is a Church on the Continent which has a pair of feet in the ceiling, representing Jesus’ departure to heaven. It is not surprising that the process of Jesus ascending has this emphasis, but to me the important part is His destination, seated at the right hand of God the Father, his work on earth completed. The Bible says he is interceding for us in heaven – it’s always good to have a friend in high places!. Jesus also said that he goes to prepare a place for us, whatever the hereafter is like, Jesus makes it right for us.

Maybe we won’t have an Ascension service on Thursday 14th of May, but if you can, remember that Jesus, our friend and saviour, is now at His rightful place enthroned in heaven.

Revd Peter Yorkstone