Scripture reading: Acts 1:9-11

In the comedy-drama Don’t Look Up, two astronomers discover a massive comet on a collision course with Earth—a planet-killer capable of wiping out humanity. As they sound the alarm, they expect urgency. Instead, they encounter political spin, media trivialization, and widespread denial. The phrase “Don’t Look Up” becomes a chilling slogan: leaders urging people to ignore what is plainly visible, to refuse to even lift their eyes to the truth.

In today’s scripture, however, we see a very different posture. The disciples of Jesus Christ are looking up, not in denial, but in longing and awe as He ascends into heaven. As they gaze, they are reminded of a promise:

“This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

This same Jesus, who endured the agony of the cross at Calvary and completed His world-redeeming mission, now entrusts His disciples with a message that would change the world. The truth is no longer hidden. It is available for all to see: that everyone who believes in His name will be saved.

Yet, in a sobering sense, there is still a “comet” on the horizon. Scripture reminds us that it is appointed for man to die once, and after that, judgment. Reality is approaching. Eternity is certain. And only one Person can save.

Still, many choose not to look up. They bury themselves in distraction, entertainment, noise, and ambition. They prioritise power, comfort, and profit over truth. Like the crowds in Don’t Look Up, they become willfully blind, even when the signs are unmistakable.

But the call of the believer is different.

To look up is to live with the return of Christ in clear focus.
To look up is to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.
To look up is to anchor your life in hope, not denial.

Because this same Jesus will return. Not as the Lamb who was slain, but as the Lion who reigns.

Maranatha. Come, Lord Jesus!

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who came, died, rose again, and ascended in glory. Thank You for the hope we have in His promised return.

Lord, in a world filled with noise, distraction, and denial, help us to lift our eyes and truly look up. Guard our hearts from becoming dull to truth. Give us the grace to live with eternity in view, to walk in obedience, and to work out our salvation with reverence and sincerity.

Teach us to fix our gaze on You, not on fleeting pleasures or passing ambitions, but on what truly matters. Strengthen our faith, renew our hope, and stir in us a deep longing for Your coming kingdom.

And as we wait, make us faithful witnesses. Bold in truth, rich in love, and steadfast in purpose.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Until next time, stay blessed.