--- title: "Luke 24:44-53" description: "# Worship Tools ## Worship Outline 1 ### Additional Scriptures  *Psalm 47,* Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:15-23  ### Preparation  *For the Disciples’ Generous Response provide “play” money as directed.*  ### Worship Center  *Project the following [photo](https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/3124/unknown-maker-the-ascension-ottonian-about-1025-1050/)*. *The images from this web page are available…" url: "https://gathering.cofchrist.org/lectionary/luke-2444-53/" updated: "2026-10-08" category: Easter tags: - Gospel - New Testament --- # Luke 24:44-53 # Worship Tools ## Worship Outline 1 ### Additional Scriptures  *Psalm 47,* Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:15-23  ### Preparation  *For the Disciples’ Generous Response provide “play” money as directed.*  ### Worship Center  *Project the following [photo](https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/objects/3124/unknown-maker-the-ascension-ottonian-about-1025-1050/)*. *The images from this web page are available for download without charge under the Getty’s Open Content Program.*  ### Prelude  ### Welcome  ### Call to Worship Psalm 47:1, 6  *Provide space in the bulletin or hand out paper for worshipers to write a sentence or expression of praise to God. Ask the group to move around the worship space sharing their expression with others.*  ### Hymn of Praise  “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” *CCS *101  *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.*  OR “Creation Flows Unceasingly” *CCS *107  ### Invocation  ### Response  ### Prayer for Peace  *Light the peace candle*  ### Peace Hymn  “Gonna Lay Down My Sword and Shield” *CCS *321  OR “The Peace of Jesus Christ” *CCS *317  Prayer   Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.  O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; it is in dying that we are born again to eternal life. Amen.  —attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi  ### Scripture Reading Luke 24:44–53  ### Hymn of Scripture  “The Living Word of Scripture” *CCS *65  OR “Called to Gather as God’s People”  *stanzas 1 and 2*  *CCS *79   ### Message  Based on Luke 24:44–53  ### Disciples’ Generous Response  ### Discussion  *Have a large amount of play money (this can be bought at toy stores, found in board game sets, or handmade by cutting paper into rectangles). *  *Ask: “*How much money would it take for you to feel rich?”  *Guide the discussion until an amount is agreed to. Count out that value in play money and let everyone see the stack. Place the stack where all can see it.*  *Then ask: *“Do you think being rich in our city is the same as being rich in other locations around the globe?”   *Use rural Appalachia (USA) as an example. Count out $1,700 and show the stack of money. *  Seventeen hundred dollars is what is needed for a family of four to live for one month in Appalachia.  *Place the stack of money next to the first one.*  Do you think being rich in Appalachia (USA) is the same as being rich in another country, like India?   *Count out $1,600. *  Sixteen hundred dollars is what many families in India earn for a whole year.  *Show how the two stacks (Appalachia and India) are almost the same, but the first is for one month, and the second is for a year. Discuss the contrast. *  *Next, compare the two piles (Appalachia and India) to the original stack of money that was identified as making the participants feel rich. Discuss the following questions:*  - What does it mean to be rich?  - How much money would you need to feel rich?  - What else in life makes us rich besides money?  - Let us remember that we are rich in so many ways and then be generous in our giving.  Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes  ### Hymn of Generosity  “Take My Gifts and Let Me Love You” *CCS *609  OR “From You I Receive”* Sing several times  * *CCS *611  *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. *  ### Spiritual Practice Video *During the season of Easter, play this video (approximately 4 minute) as a spiritual practice of reflection during your service. It invites us to consider the questions: What kind of world will we choose? How will we live?* [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq9J8qqrGag) ### Commitment Reading  Leader: Now, behold, a marvelous work is about to come forth.  **All: ****Open our hearts to your words, Lord.**  Leader: If you yearn to serve God, you are called to the work.  **All: ****Open our might to your words, Lord.**  Leader: Faith, hope, charity, and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualifies you for this work.  **All: ****Open our minds to your words, Lord.**  Leader: Remember, faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, kindness, godliness, charity, humility, and diligence.  **All: ****Open our strength to your words, Lord.**  Leader: See that you serve God with all your heart, might, mind, and strength.  **All: ****Open us to your words, Lord.**  Leader: Ask and you shall receive, knock and the door shall be opened.  **All: ****Amen.**  —Adapted from Doctrine and Covenants 4  ###  Closing Hymn  “What Does the Lord Require” *CCS *300  OR “Send Me Forth” *CCS *651  ### Benediction  ### Sending Forth: Luke 24:46–48  Go and share your testimony!  ### Postlude ## Worship Outline 2 ### Additional Scriptures *Psalm 47; Acts 1:1–11; Ephesians 1:15–23* ### Worship Setting *Use pictures or objects to illustrate stars, the earth, the moon, plants, fruits, vegetables, and other organic matter to illustrate embodying “all things.”* ### Prelude ### Gathering Hymn “Wind upon the Waters” *CCS *49 OR “The Living Word of Scripture” *CCS *65 OR “Gather Us In" *stanzas 1, 2, and 4 CCS *72 ### Welcome The writer of Luke concludes his Gospel by describing the final blessing and ascension of Jesus Christ as he commissioned his disciples to become witnesses of the gospel. In Doctrine and Covenants 85:2–3, we read that Jesus is in and through all things—the sun, the moon, stars, even the earth. Let us open our minds to the messages of these scriptures as we worship today. ### Scripture Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 85:2–3 ### Responsive Call to Worship Leader: Clap your hands, all you peoples; **People: shout to God with loud songs of joy!** Leader: For God has ascended with shouts of triumph, **People: and trumpet fanfare!** Leader: Our God is exalted on high, **People: sovereign over all the nations,** Leader: and Lord of our lives. **People: Let us worship together.** —based on Psalm 47 ### Hymn of Joy and Praise “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!” *CCS *52 OR “Earth and All Stars” *CCS *102 *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.* OR “Je louerai l’Eternel/Praise, I Will Praise You, Lord” *CCS *115 *Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.* ### Invocation ### Response ### Focus Moment Spiritual Practice: Holding in the Light                 *find more details at: *[CofChrist.org](https://cofchrist.org/holding-in-the-light/) This spiritual practice is a form of communal intercessory prayer adapted from the Quaker movement. It is a way of praying for others using silence and imaging. *If possible, gather in a circle.* 1. *Invite people into intercessory prayer in which specific people and needs are placed in God’s care.* 2. *Spend a few moments centering on God’s presence and the group’s intention of praying for others.* 3. *Ask people to share aloud the needs and people for whom the group should pray.* 4. *Enter a period of silent prayer on behalf of those people or needs named.* 5. *Encourage the “pray-ers” to trust God to know the needs of those being prayed for without a lot of words or explanations.* 6. *Continue in silent intercession for several minutes.* 7. *Offer a brief prayer of thanks to close your prayer experience.* ### Prayer for Peace *Light the peace candle* Ministry of Music OR Community Song of Peace “My Peace” *sing twice* *CCS *149 OR “Dona Nobis Pacem” *CCS *155 *Divide participants into 3 groups, assigning a part to each group OR sing along with the vocal recording found on *Community of Christ Audio Recordings*, available from Herald House.* OR “Peace of Jesus” *CCS *318 Prayer for Peace Creator God, Today we pray for peace in all things. May our voices combine with the thousands of others praising your name for the beautiful Earth which you have passed to us. Lord, we pray for peace in your forests, in your oceans, in your towns and villages. Unfortunately, God, we know the greatest conflict lies within your people, so we pray for peace in their hearts as well. May we be blessed by your peace and seek refuge in your presence. In the name of Jesus Christ, the one who showed us how to be peacemakers, Amen. ### Scripture Reading: Luke 24:44-53 ### Ministry of Music or Community Hymn “Speak, O Lord” *CCS *66 OR “We Thank You, O God, for Our Prophets” *CCS *180 *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.* OR “Clouds of Witnesses Surround Us” *CCS *372 ### Message Based on Luke 24:44–53 ### Disciples’ Generous Response Statement *Read the lyrics from “For the Beauty of the Earth,” *CCS *130.* Story Rod Downing is a leader of the Canadian Peace and Justice Committee of Community of Christ. The committee promotes just habits and alerts members and friends to causes. Rod also challenges people to join letter-writing campaigns. His committee maintains a website, drawing attention to various peace, justice, and human-rights matters —[*www.CofChristpeacejustice.ca*](http://www.cofchristpeacejustice.ca/)*.* Through the website, many have begun to use fair-trade coffee and shop for organic cotton clothing. After a deadly extremist attack in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, Vancouver Community of Christ and the committee reached out to a mosque with offers of mutual respect. They developed and shared resources with other worshipping communities to help others reach out for peace and justice in similar ways. Prayer of Gratitude and Blessing of Local and Worldwide Mission tithes Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes ### Hymn of Blessing “O Breath of Life” *CCS *486 OR “Go, My Children, with My Blessing” *CCS *650 OR “God Be with You Till We Meet Again” *CCS *664 ### Response ### Responsive Sending Forth Leader: In this place, we gathered for worship. **People: From this place, we now return to the world.** Leader: We leave to share the story of Jesus. **People: We leave to share the message with those around us.** Leader: We share the faith in word and in deed, in speech and in action. **People: We go out to be living witnesses.** Leader: As we go to testify to God’s active love in the world, **People: we know that God goes with us,** Leader: sharing the laughter and the hope, the fears and the tears. **All: Thank you God! Amen.** ### Postlude ## Worship Outline 3 ### Additional Scriptures  *Psalm 47; Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:15-23 * ### Preparation *Today’s Focus Moment will emphasize the importance of sharing our witness. Ask someone to make a “silly face” toward the gathered worshippers. Discuss with the person prior to worship to ensure the face is comical but also appropriate and easy to describe and/or identify. * ### Prelude ### Hymn of Praise  “Uyai Mose/Come All You People” *Repeat several times. CCS *84  *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. * OR “Holy Spirit, Come with Power” *CCS *46  OR “All Creatures of Our God and King” *CCS *98  *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. * ### Welcome ### Call to Worship: Psalm 47:6-7  Today we sing praises just as we are told! Let our songs and melodies be part of our witness! ### Invitation to Worship  “Je louerai l’Éternel/Praise, I Will Praise You, Lord” *Sing twice. CCS *115  *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.* OR “I Will Sing, I Will Sing” *CCS *112  *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. * OR “Sing to God as Sings the Ocean” *CCS *104  ### Invocation ### Response ### Prayer for Peace  *Light the peace candle* Prayer  Holy Spirit of Peace,  Open our eyes to your world in need.  Forgive us for selfish inward gazing.  As we focus on the ruptures within humanity and creation, help us recognize your unfolding truths.  Where we see injustice, let us cry out.  Where we see injury, let us reach forth with helping hands.  May all those who struggle find the true peace of Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray.  Amen.                          —Glenn Johnson  ### Scripture Reading: Luke 24:44-53  ### Focus Moment: “What Did You See?!”     *found after the service outline* ### Hymn of Witness  “Tell Me the Story of Jesus” *CCS *623  OR “You Are Called to Tell the Story” *CCS *625  OR “Christ’s Word to Us” *CCS *632  ### Message Based on Luke 24: 44-53  ### Ministry of Music OR Community Hymn  “Speak, O Lord” *CCS *66  OR “Fountain of All Revelation” *CCS *67  OR “We Limit Not the Truth of God” *CCS *69  *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own. * ### Disciples’ Generous Response  Statement  When asked about the restoration of Israel, Jesus responds:  “It is not for you to know the times or periods, that the father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria and the ends of all the earth.” —Acts 1:6-9  Even in the brief moments after his return from death, Jesus’s message of generosity reigns true. A keystone in our witnessing, what we know, love, and see, is founded in what we have received from the Holy Spirit. An important part of our witness is the ways we share our time, talent, treasure, and testimony.  Testimony  *Ask someone to share a testimony describing when they have received the generosity of others. * *If there is sufficient time, discuss the following questions: * - How does our witness influence the way we give and receive?  - How can our generosity help us better understand God’s love for all people?  Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes  ### Hymn of Commitment  “When Holy Ghost Shall Come in Power” *CCS *628  OR “When We Lift Our Pack and Go” *CCS *634  OR “Make Us, O God, a Church That Shares” *CCS *657  ### Benediction ### Sending Forth  Be a people who embody the fullness of the gospel.  Be the witnesses of God’s love in the world waiting to hear your voice.  Do not be afraid. Even the smallest of light can illuminate an unseen path.  Make your faith known, share your light, and be the presence of Christ in all you do!  ### Postlude ### Focus Moment: “What Did You See?!”  Preparation *Be sure to read through this activity prior to worship. * *Invite the preselected volunteer to come forward, the one asked to make a “silly face.” * Activity *Place the volunteer in the center, looking at the group. Make sure they are placed so some people can see the volunteer’s face, and some cannot. * *Instruct the volunteer to make their “silly face” and hold for five to seven seconds. * *Once the volunteer relaxes their face, ask children/participants: *“What did you see?”  *Some will be able to describe the “silly face” others will not because they could not see the volunteer’s face. * *Discuss: * After Jesus returns to life, he tells us that we are all witnesses! What does it mean to be a “witness”?  Just like we needed some people to describe what “silly face” you saw, Jesus tells us that we need to share his teachings!  Even on bad days or days you aren’t smiling, Jesus wants us to generously share about him throughout the whole world!  No matter how big or small, young or old, we are all witnesses!  Conclusion *Sing: *“If You’re Happy and You Know It,” *but instead of *“clap your hands” *sing *“make a silly face.”  *As they sing, have them make silly faces to one another. Have fun!* ## Worship Outline 4 ### Additional Scriptures *Psalm 47; Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:15-23* ### Preparation *As much as possible, involve Evangelists in the planning and experiences of this worship service. * *Distribute coloring sheets, found after the worship service outline, for the Focus Moment along with crayons or coloring pencils as participants enter the worship space. Consider collecting them at the end of the service to display.* ### We Gather in Praise ### Prelude ### Gathering Hymn “Come and Bring Light” *choose several stanzas most applicable to your group CCS *287 OR “Praise to the Living God” *CCS 8* OR “Herr, du mein Gott/You Are My God” *CCS *12 *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.* ### Welcome *Consider sharing information about the priesthood office of evangelist and the sacrament of evangelist blessing and who to contact.* ### Psalm of Rejoicing *As an alternative to the entire group participating, invite five individuals to stand within the worship space at the appropriate time and read one of the “people” lines.* Leader: Clap your hands, all you peoples; **People: shout to God with loud songs of joy.** Leader: For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome, **People: a great ruler over all the earth.** Leader: God chose our heritage for us, **People: God has gone up with a shout.** Leader: For God is the ruler of all the Earth; **People: God is ruler over the nations.** Leader: Sing praises to God, sing praises; **People: sing praises to the Holy One, ** **ALL: sing praises!** —Psalm 47, adapted ### Hymn of Rejoicing “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” *CCS *87 *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.* OR “Blessed Be Your Name” *CCS *252 OR “Sing of Colors/De colores” *CCS *332 *Encourage participants to sing in a language other than their own.* ### Invocation ### Sung Response  *Sing twice* “Bless the Lord” *CCS *575 OR “For Thy Gracious Blessing” *CCS *126 ### Confession ### We Pray in Confession    *If possible, offered by an Evangelist.* “Let us breathe one fervent prayer, Ere from hence your footsteps tend.” So goes the hymn, God. The hope to breathe one fervent prayer—the hope to sense the sweet breeze of your presence in our midst. Hear then our plea … Let the breath of your Spirit stir our souls with new resolve to be your sons and daughters. Let it sweep from our lives lost days, dusty dreams, leftover love. Let the breath of your Spirit come gently—refreshing our insights for your church and people. Let it waft new hope and assurance into hearts made heavy by unrest and uncertainty. Let it enlighten and encourage your servants— blessing them with courage, strength, and a lightness of spirit. And when worry and weariness invade—grace them with solitude and retreat, breathing your renewal upon them. May the breath of your Spirit come also, dear God, as a *mighty wind—* Let it roll the stones away— the stones we place at the sepulcher of our private lives where even they, whom we cherish most, have no admittance. Let it roll away the stones we lay between sisters and brothers of the faith who behave and believe differently— whose God seems so distant from ours. Let it roll away the stones we pretend are not there— stones that separate colleagues, quorums, and councils— stones that replace fellowship with policy, and care with convenience. Let it break down our defenses—releasing the stale air of self-sufficiency that we might lean again upon your arms. May this be our confession and our prayer. In Jesus name, Amen. —Danny A. Belrose, *Let the Spirit Breathe, *Herald House, Independence, 2004, page 23. Used with permission. ### Singing Our Confession “We Are the Ones the World Awaits” *CCS *305 OR “Creator of Sunrises” *CCS *207 OR “Restore in Us, O God” *CCS *219 ### Proclamation and Reflection ### Focus Moment *Read “*The Ascension” *story from a children’s Bible (Luke 24:44-53). The disciples (and we) are to take up Jesus' work after receiving the Holy Spirit. Find and print a coloring page of the ascension for participants to the color* *during The Morning Message to follow.* ### The Morning Message Based on Luke 24:44-53 ### We Reflect on What We Have Heard *Use CCS 292, *“The People Walk/Un pueblo que camina,” *as a ministry of music or community hymn, a solo, or as a reading with individuals reading each stanza, and the worshiping  community replying with the refrain. If possible, incorporate Spanish and English into the singing or reading.* ### Prayer for Peace *Light the peace candle* Prayer God of the Peaceful Reign on Earth, We come from our daily lives to pray that the light of peace will heal the dark places of the Earth. Be with us as we worship as one and thereby become the light we are called to be. Amen. *—Prayers and Readings for Worship, *ed. Peter Judd, Herald House: Independence, 1996, p. 14, adapted ### We Hear and Respond ### Disciples’ Generous Response Video “What Is Required of Me?”  [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yyCoc0svLU4) Stewardship Response—Silent Meditation *Invite participants to silently thank God for all that they have been given, or to contemplate how they might practice gratitude differently, or to consider any changes they need to make in their approach to a situation where they are the stewards of the bounties of our Earth.* Blessing and Receiving of Local and Worldwide Mission Tithes ### We Are Sent Out to be a Blessing ### Hymn of Blessing “Let Your Heart Be Broken” *CCS *353 OR “Go, My Children, with My Blessing” *CCS *650 OR “Bwana Awabariki/May God Grant You a Blessing”    *repeat several times      CCS *660 *Encourage participants to sing in languages other than their own.* ### Prayer of Blessing           *If possible, offered by an Evangelist.* *Offer a prayer focused on our call to bless others.* ### Sending Forth: Doctrine and Covenants 155:7-8 ### Postlude ## Sacred Space: Small-Group Worship Outline ### Gathering #### Welcome Ascension Day is when Jesus hikes with his disciples to a mountaintop. There he blesses them and tells of the coming Holy Spirit before he ascends into heaven. #### Prayer for Peace* * *Ring a bell or chime three times slowly.**Light the peace candle.* Lord, Creator of all life, we are aware of your presence in this space and in our hearts. Let us pray in silence. Thank you for this time of holiness. We gather in worship and praise for all you have given, shared, and done. We gather in peace, seeking your peace. Let us pray in silence. Grant us your grace. Forgive us for all we have left ungiven, unshared, undone. Let us pray in silence. Help us more fully understand the gift of your Son in our lives and to all peoples. Let us pray in silence. Open our hearts and minds. Connect us through our worship that we might deeply embrace the call of your kingdom as a congregation, mission center, and global faith community. Let us pray in silence. Lord, we thank you for all things. In Jesus’ name. Amen. ### Spiritual Practice #### Jesus Prayer Today we will experience an ancient spiritual practice from Orthodox Christianity. It is a way of connecting with the gracious spirit of Christ as we ask to receive mercy. The prayer comes from the scripture of the blind man calling for Jesus to heal him. We will practice this prayer together for three minutes in the context of a breath prayer. Sit with a relaxed posture. If you are comfortable, close your eyes. Center yourself and let your breath become slow and even. I will say the prayer aloud for the first few breaths, and then you will continue praying, silently repeating the phrases as you breathe. Take a breath in and let it out. As you take your next breath in pray silently, “Lord Jesus Christ.” Then exhale in silent prayer, “Have mercy on me.” Inhale: “Lord Jesus Christ.” Exhale: “Have mercy on me.” (Repeat these instructions as you breathe two more times.) Monitor the time. Occasionally give instructions. Inhale: “Lord Jesus Christ.” Exhale: “Have mercy on me.” After three minutes share the following instructions: Close your prayer with a final repetition of the prayer words. When you are ready, take a deep breath and open your eyes. When everyone is finished say aloud, “Amen.” —Yearning for God ### Sharing Around the Table #### Luke 24: 44–53 NRSVue Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the scriptures, and he said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he withdrew from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; and they were continually in the temple blessing God. Jesus tells the disciples he is sending what God has promised them. He tells them to stay in Jerusalem until they receive power from on high. The power they will receive is a gift from the Divine. Because they are to wait for it, they have a heightened sense of expectancy and excitement. Jesus leads his followers to Bethany and blesses them. The Greek word the author uses for *bless *means “to speak well of.” Jesus speaks well of them and praises them. It is a blessing of well-being, and wholeness. After being blessed, the disciples return to Jerusalem with great joy and continually bless or “speak well of” God. #### Questions 1. What gifts from God have you received? How do you use these gifts in your discipleship? 2. When has someone “spoken well of you” or blessed you with well-being and wholeness? 3. How do you bless others? ### Sending #### Generosity Statement Faithful disciples respond to an increasing awareness of the abundant generosity of God by sharing according to the desires of their hearts; not by commandment or constraint. —Doctrine and Covenants 163:9 The offering basket is available if you would like to support ongoing, small-group ministries as part of your generous response. This offering prayer is adapted from A Disciple’s Generous Response: God of wisdom and love, May the gifts we share be in response to the generous gifts you have given us. May the monetary offerings we give be received in love and used with wisdom. Amen. #### Invitation to Next Meeting** ** #### Closing Hymn** ** *CCS* 636, “I Have Called You by Your Name” #### Closing Prayer --- ### Optional Additions Depending on Group #### Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper ##### Communion Scripture Choose one scripture to read from this selection: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; Matthew 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–26; Luke 22:7–39. ##### Communion Statement All are welcome at Christ’s table. The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacrament in which we remember the life, death, resurrection, and continuing presence of Jesus Christ. In Community of Christ, we also experience Communion as an opportunity to renew our baptismal covenant and to be formed as disciples who live Christ’s mission. Others may have different or added understandings within their faith traditions. We invite all who participate in the Lord’s Supper to do so in the love and peace of Jesus Christ. The Spirit is present with us as we share Communion, as an expression of blessing, healing, peace, and community. In preparation let’s sing *Community of Christ Sings* 524, “For Bread Before Us Broken.” Blessing and serving bread and wine.** ** #### Thoughts for Children Materials: large paper or poster board, marker After Jesus finished teaching the disciples, he went back to heaven. He told the disciples to share the stories of Jesus with all people. We are disciples, too. We also are called to tell people about Jesus. Let’s list all the things we know about Jesus. If children are hesitant to share, ask other group members to offer what they know. List responses on paper. When several things are listed, say: This is a wonderful list of things we can tell people about Jesus. This week I want you to try to be like Jesus’ disciples and do what Jesus told his disciples to do: Tell someone something you learned about Jesus. ## Sermon Helps ### Exploring the Scripture Today’s passage is part of the longer account in Luke 24 that includes the empty tomb and the encounter of two disciples with Christ on the road to Emmaus. These stories are in harmony with Luke’s entire message that Jesus has come to bring restoration to Israel. In other words, Jesus’ mission is fulfilling God’s promise. Specifically, the text encompasses Christ’s appearance in Jerusalem and includes Christ’s blessing and his ascension. Consistent with author’s purpose, verses 44–53 provide continuity between the past and present, then move toward the future. In verse 44 Jesus refers the disciples to the law of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms. Jesus stresses this link with the past. God was involved from the beginning. God is faithful and engaged in history. People in modern cultures have a tendency to discount the past. But it is important to recognize that tradition and history have much to contribute. The Holy Spirit has encountered many who have gone before us. We are not the first to be blessed by God. We would do well to listen to their stories and testimonies about their encounters with the Divine. In verse 45 Jesus opens their minds. In the following verses the disciples witness where God is moving at their particular moment in history. He describes divine events they witnessed. It is a reality for them. They know it as truth. Now, Christ has their attention. He challenges them to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sin to all. As disciples, we, too, need to be aware of where God is moving today. When we allow God’s grace to enter our lives, transformation occurs. When we worship, pray, study, hear the word, and share in the sacraments, God appears and blesses. We are called to share that good news with the world. Then, in the text, Jesus brings the future into the story. Jesus tells the disciples he is sending what God has promised. He directs them to stay in Jerusalem until they have power from on high. The power they will receive is not theirs. Rather, it is God’s power. It is a gift. This power will come from the Divine. Because they are to wait for it, they have a heightened sense of expectancy and excitement. Something is going to happen. How will the power be revealed? In verses 50–53, Jesus leads his followers to Bethany and blesses them before he ascends. The Greek word the author uses for bless means “to speak well of.” So, in this text Jesus speaks well of them and praises them. He is asking God to help them gain peace, well-being, and wholeness. We, too, receive Christ’s blessing. As disciples, we are called to share that blessing with others. There are many among us who need blessing. We are to “speak well of” them and ask God’s Spirit to give them peace and wholeness. In the text, after being blessed, the disciples worship Jesus. They return to Jerusalem with great joy and continually “speak well of” God (vv. 52–53). Our families, congregations, and faith community should also be continually full of joy and praise. Today we speak “well of God” because of our experience that God’s unbounded love and unconditional grace embraces all. ### Central Ideas 1. Jesus came to fulfill everything written about him in the Law of Moses, the prophets, and in the psalms. 2. The power we receive is from God. It is a divine gift to be used for God’s purposes. It is not power to use for our own benefit. 3. We are called to be witnesses—proclaimers of repentance and forgiveness of sins—to all nations. Christ’s mission is our mission. ### Questions for the Speaker 1. How do the traditions of your congregation reflect God’s presence? (past) 2. When has your “mind been opened to scripture”? (present) 3. Have you ever felt expectant to receive from God? (future) 4. What are some ways you and your congregation witness of and proclaim the Risen Christ? 5. How would you explain the ascension of Jesus to a new disciple? # Lessons ## Adult Lesson 1 ### Focus Scripture Passage Luke 24:44–53  ### Lesson Focus Christ is proclaimed through the sacred story of scripture and the church.  ### Objectives  *The learners will…*  - reflect on past, present, and future experiences with the Risen Christ.  - discuss the focus scripture passage.  - explore Community of Christ affirmations of scripture and connections to the focus passage.  - discover Christ’s call through the sacred story of individuals and community.  ### Supplies  - Bible   - *Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, Herald House, 2018  - *Community of Christ Sings* (*CCS*)  ### Notes to Teacher In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:44–53 in *Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Matthew),* pp. 72–73, available through Herald House.  ### Gather *Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)* In the weeks of Easter, we focus on passages from John’s Gospel. Today’s passage is the final passage of Luke’s Gospel, which culminates with the ascension of the Lord. Spend a few moments reflecting on your journey as a disciple and respond to one of the following as a large group or in small groups of two or three.  - How has the risen Christ been revealed to you in the past?  - How is the risen Christ revealed to you in the present?  - How will the risen Christ be revealed in the future?  ### Engage *Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)* Read Luke 24:44–53.  The closing passage of Luke’s Gospel affirms the message found throughout the entire book: Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel. The Gospel closes with the Risen Christ commissioning his disciples to bear the good news to the world of what God has done in Christ. The community of Jesus’s disciples is called to be more than a support group for personal salvation and spirituality. It is called to continue the story of God’s mission to the world. The closing passage connects the past (Israel), the present (Jesus), and the future (the church), which is a foundational message for the author of Luke and Acts.  The disciples’ response to Jesus’s death included fear, loss, and uncertainty. In this passage, after the resurrected Jesus blessed and commissioned the disciples, and after the Ascension, the disciples respond in joy and blessing. The Greek word for “bless” literally means “to speak well of.” Jesus speaks well of his disciples, who in turn speak well of God. We are called to “speak well of” God by the way we live as disciples of Jesus Christ.  Respond to the following questions as a large group or in small groups of two or three.  - What traditions (congregation, church, or broader Christian tradition) “speak well of” the nature of God revealed in Jesus Christ?  - In what ways have you seen the Christian message represented in ways that did not “speak well of” God?  - Luke’s author records that Jesus opened the minds of the disciples to understand the scriptures. How has your mind been opened to the scriptures?  - What was Jesus revealing to the disciples about scripture in this passage?  ### Respond *Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)* Today’s passage reveals an important understanding of scripture. It is reflected in Community of Christ affirmations about scripture. These affirmations are found in *Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, Herald House, 2018. They reflect and expand our understanding of the Enduring Principle Continuing Revelation. #### Note to Instructor If possible, provide copies of “Scripture in Community of Christ” from pp. 63–65 of *Sharing in Community of Christ*. If time permits, read each affirmation and consider how it connects with today’s passage.  Read and discuss the preamble and following affirmations of scripture in Community of Christ.  #### Preamble  Scripture provides divine guidance and inspired insight for life when responsibly interpreted and faithfully applied. Scripture helps us believe in Jesus Christ. Its witness guides us to eternal life and enables us to grow spiritually, to transform our lives, and to participate actively in the life and ministry of the church.  #### Affirmation 1  We declare that Jesus Christ—who lived, was crucified, was raised from the dead, and comes again—is the Living Word of God. It is to Christ that scripture points. It is through Christ that we have life (John 5:39–40). It is Christ whom we must hear (Mark 9:7).  #### Affirmation 2  We find the Living Word in and through scripture. Scripture is the indispensable witness of the saving, transforming message that God has entrusted to the church. The church formed the canon of scripture so that it might always have a way to hear the good news, nurture its faith, measure its life, test its experience, and remember its identity.  **Discuss:** - How does each affirmation reflect “Jesus opening minds of disciples” to understand scripture?  - How is the author of Luke’s message that Jesus is the fulfillment of scripture reflected in each affirmation?  - What is important for us to understand about responsibly interpreting and faithfully applying scripture?  ### Send *Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)* #### We Share a Sacred Story  The sacred story is the unfolding drama of God’s reconciling work in the world. This story reveals God as the One who calls humanity into relationship and who seeks the well-being of all creation. This revelation, first made known in the books of the Hebrew Bible, continues in the New Testament with the coming of Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God. This library of books called the Bible roots the church in the sacred story and nurtures and informs Community of Christ’s faith, identity, and mission to the world.  The story of God’s transforming work in the world did not end with the testimony of the biblical writers. It continued in the life and witness of the whole Christian church, as well as in other places. The sacred story is the all-encompassing saga of God’s redeeming action in the world. Generations of Christian followers have written new chapters to this continuing story. The sacred story, as found in scripture and in the larger Christian tradition, anchors and nurtures our understanding of ourselves and our call. Our unique identity includes claiming our place within the wide circle of those who in every time and place have called on the Lord Jesus Christ. With them, we continue to write new chapters to the old, old story of Jesus and his love.  —*Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, pp. 16–17  Prayerfully consider your response to the following questions. Reflect on these questions as part of your daily spiritual practice in the coming week.  - How have you been shaped by the sacred story of Jesus and his love?  - How are you being called to continue the sacred story in your life as a disciple? In your congregation? In your community?  ### Bless *Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)* Read or sing “God, Whose Grace Redeems Our Story” *CCS* 570 to close this time of learning and sharing.  ## Adult Lesson 2 ### Focus Scripture Passage Luke 24:44–53 ### Lesson Focus When God opens our minds to understand the scriptures, we realize that the past, present, and future are all interconnected. God is in control, and our mission is Christ’s mission. ### Objectives *The learners will…* - engage in the scripture text. - consider the importance of the sacred story. - compare Jesus’ blessing with an evangelist blessing. - challenge one another to open our minds to new understandings of the scriptures and what God might be calling us to. ### Supplies - Bible - Excerpt from a congregational evangelist blessing (if available) - *Community of Christ Sings* (*CCS*) ### Note to Teacher In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:44–53 in *Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament*, pp. 77–78, available through Herald House. ### Gather Luke 24:50 says Jesus blessed the disciples. In Community of Christ we are privileged to have the sacrament of evangelist blessing for individuals, families, households, groups, and congregations “seeking spiritual guidance to more completely give themselves to Christ’s mission” (Doctrine and Covenants165:5b). Read an excerpt from the congregational blessing for your congregation and discuss how it has helped the congregation be a blessing to others. Or Have class members share in small groups something from an evangelist blessing that has been especially meaningful to them. Close this portion with a prayer that through these blessings we will bless others. ### Engage Read Luke 24:44–53 together; then read and discuss the following. Today’s scripture passage is tied to the rest of Luke 24 in which the women found the empty tomb and two of the disciples met Jesus on the road to Emmaus. Just as Jesus interpreted the Hebrew Scriptures to those disciples, so also he opens the minds of these disciples to “read their entire scriptures in a new light, to see new meanings and foreshadowings in stories and words long familiar to them” (George W. Ramsey in Exegetical Perspective, *Feasting on the Word: Year B, Volume 2*, edited by David L. Bartlett and Barbara Brown Taylor [Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2008], p. 523). - When have you seen a familiar scripture in a new way? Explain. As he opens their minds to the scriptures, Jesus emphasizes that “repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.” Repentance means to turn, and in the New Testament it means “to understand something differently after thinking it over…lead[ing] to changed actions….” (David Noel Freedman, ed., Eerdman’s *Dictionary of the Bible* [Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdman’s Publishing Company, 2000], p. 1118). God forgives universally, and we must also. Community relationships depend on the members reconciling with one another many times over. - How has turning and changing your actions led to blessings in your life? - When have you forgiven or been the recipient of forgiveness, bringing wholeness back into your life? Verse 48 speaks of the disciples being witnesses and for them to wait in the city until they receive the promised gift of the Holy Spirit. He has linked the scriptures together in such a way to emphasize God’s trustworthiness and now he asks them to trust once more. - How difficult is it for you to wait and trust? - Share stories of waiting and God’s faithful response. The final verses tell us Jesus took the disciples to Bethany, blessed them, and was transfigured. After that they worshiped him, returned joyfully to Jerusalem, and blessed God in the temple. Bethany was the town in which Lazarus was raised from the dead and Jesus was anointed with expensive perfume. The name Bethany may derive from the Hebrew word meaning “house of the poor or afflicted” (Freedman, ed. p. 168). - Discuss the significance of that place for Jesus and his disciples. - Where did you choose to have your evangelist blessing? Was that place especially significant in your spiritual life? If so, why? ### Respond > Sacred story is the unfolding drama of God’s reconciling work in the world. We learn about God’s relationship to people and all creation through sacred story. First made known in the books of the Hebrew Bible, the sacred story continues in the New Testament through Jesus Christ and his disciples. The story of Community of Christ is part of a much larger sacred story that is rooted in Christian history. Further, we create our own stories as we live as disciples, revealing that we each hold an important place in God’s unfolding story. > > > > —*Of Water and Spirit*, p. 15 This understanding of the sacred story helps us connect past, present, and future in God’s larger plan. Throughout the sacred story, people who have been touched by the Spirit have responded to a call to costly discipleship. > A diligent church with diligent members is the best way to proclaim and serve in God’s reign. It is important to remember this message that is both the announcement of a realm inaugurated by Jesus that promises a future of hope, to the glory of God, and a daily experience of walking with Jesus in the struggles, doubts, conflicts, and resolutions of life…The invitation is to open minds and hearts to the coming of something new and refreshing, even when the whole picture is not evident. People should await with great expectation and joy what God has offered! > > > > —Carmelo Alvarez in Pastoral Perspective, *Feasting on the Word: Year B, Volume 2*, edited by David L. Bartlett and Barbara Brown Taylor (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2008), p. 522 Discuss: - What are some ways your congregation is active in the sacred story? How do you witness of the risen Christ in your community? - What stories are we creating as disciples who walk “with Jesus in the struggles, doubts, conflicts, and resolutions of life”? ### Send This scripture passage has shared enlightenment, hope, trust, and joy. As you open your mind to the scriptures, reflect or write in your journal ways that God is working in you in the sacred story. Whom is God calling you to be in the story? ### Bless Close this time together by singing “We Thank You, O God, for Our Prophets” *CCS* 180. ## Youth Lesson 1 ### Focus Scripture Passage Luke 24:44–53  ### Lesson Focus Jesus blessed his disciples before he left them. Disciples bless others with words and actions.  ### Objectives  *The learners will…*  - hear the scripture passage about Jesus blessing his disciples and ascending to heaven.  - think about what Christ’s commission means.  - learn that blessing means to “speak well of.”  ### Supplies  - Bible  - *Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, Herald House, 2018  - *Community of Christ Sings* (*CCS*)  - Dictionary  - Chart paper and markers  ### Note to Teacher In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:44–53 in *Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament *(with focus on the Gospel according to Matthew), pp. 72–73, available through Herald House.  ### Gather *Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)* In the ancient Celtic tradition, a prayer called Saint Patrick’s breastplate (a piece of armor) includes the words below (adapted). Use this prayer to remember that as you follow Jesus, you are strengthened to share Christ’s mission and message. Have students stand and create movements representing the action of the text as the prayer is read.  Christ be with me  Christ before me  Christ behind me Christ beneath me Christ above me  Christ on my right  Christ on my left  Christ where I lie Christ where I sit  Christ where I arise Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me  Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me Christ in every eye that sees me  Christ in every ear that hears me.  Salvation belongs to the Lord.  Amen.  —*Of Water and Spirit*, Herald House, p. 53  ### Engage *Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)* The prayer of Saint Patrick’s breastplate expresses how we are loved by God and surrounded by Christ through the Holy Spirit. In Luke 24:44–53, we read the story of Jesus’s last appearance. In these final verses of the Gospel of Luke, Jesus reminds them of all they have seen and heard while he was with them. He tells them “You are witnesses.” Then Jesus blesses the disciples, and they respond with great joy and blessing.  Have a member of the class read aloud Luke 24:44–53.  Imagine you are standing with the disciples as Jesus speaks. Reread verses 44–48.  - What is your response to Jesus’s statement, “You are witnesses of these things”?  - How would you describe the word “witness” to a friend?  - Using Google or a dictionary, look up definitions of the word “witness.” Which definition best fits with the passage from Luke? Explain.  - How are we witnesses today?  This passage includes a commissioning (to authorize, send on a mission) of the disciples. Luke 24:47 states “that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”  Form small groups of two or three and assign each group one of the following passages. Discuss how this passage compares with the passage from Luke. What is the same, and what is different? Share responses with the larger group.  **Matthew 28:19–20:** “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”  **John 20:21:** “Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.'”  **Mark 16:15:** “And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.'”  **Acts 1:8:** “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”  ### Respond *Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)* The Easter season affirms our belief that the Lord is risen! Disciples of all generations must ask, “What shall we do?” Just like the first-century church, we must consider what it is the Lord has sent us to do. Community of Christ has been counseled that “the mission of Jesus Christ is what matters most for the journey ahead” (Doctrine and Covenants 164:9f).  In Luke 4:18–19, Jesus proclaimed his mission when he read from the writings of Isaiah:  The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. The kingdom was present in Jesus’s ministry as described in the Gospels, and his disciples’ actions as described in Acts. Those first believers continued Christ’s mission by proclaiming the Living Christ, inviting all people into community, valuing the worth of each person, generously and compassionately meeting their needs, and pursuing justice and peace for everyone.  Our call is to reclaim that same vision and passion for the whole mission of Jesus Christ today through five life-changing, church-changing, and world-changing Mission Initiatives:  - **Invite People to Christ**—*Christ’s mission of evangelism*  - **Abolish Poverty, End Suffering**—*Christ’s mission of compassion*  - **Pursue Peace on Earth**—*Christ’s mission of justice and peace*  - **Develop Disciples to Serve**—*Equip individuals for Christ’s mission*  - **Experience Congregations in Mission**—*Equip congregations for Christ’s mission*   **Discuss: ** - How do these five Mission Initiatives encourage our response to Christ’s commission?  - As a disciple, what Mission Initiative do you prioritize in your response to Jesus’s commissioning of you? Explain.  Form small groups of two or three. Ask each group to write, draw, or act out how the five Mission Initiatives are connected, and how they work best when they are lived together. Share with the larger group.  ### Send *Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)* Luke 24:50 describes Jesus “lifting up his hands, [and blessing] them.” To “bless” people means to “speak good things” about them.  - What is significant about Jesus lifting his hands to bless the disciples?  - How has someone blessed you with their hands or by speaking good things about you?  - In what ways can you use your hands or words to bless another in your home? Your school? Your community?  ### Bless *Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)* Close with this prayer attributed to St. Teresa of Avila (1515–1582). Consider your response to Christ’s commission as the prayer is read.  #### Christ Has No Body Christ has no body but yours,  No hands, no feet on earth but yours,  Yours are the eyes with which he looks  Compassion on this world,  Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good,  Yours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world.  Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,  Yours are the eyes, you are his body.  Christ has no body now but yours,  No hands, no feet on earth but yours,  Yours are the eyes with which he looks  compassion on this world.  Christ has no body now on earth but yours. ## Youth Lesson 2 ### Focus Scripture Passage Luke 24:44–53 ### Lesson Focus Let us engage with scripture! ### Objectives *The learners will…* - explore Community of Christ’s understanding of scripture. - know that Jesus calls his disciples to proclaim repentance and forgiveness (God’s redemptive acts). - bless and affirm one another as God blesses us. ### Supplies - Bible - *Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, Herald House, 2018 - “Scripture in Community of Christ” (end of lesson) - “Questions for Individual and Group Reflection and Discussion” (end of lesson) - “Dwelling in the Word” (end of lesson) - Pens or pencils ### Note to Teacher In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:44–53 in *Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Mark)*, pp. 77–78, available through Herald House. ### Gather Begin class by asking: - What are some of your favorite scripture passages? - What do these favorite passages say to you? - What do you think is the importance of scripture? Read the following statement taken from the Basic Beliefs section of *Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, p. 36: > Scripture is writing inspired by God’s Spirit and accepted by the church as the normative expression of its identity, message, and mission. We affirm the Bible as the foundational scripture for the church. In addition, Community of Christ uses the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants—not to replace the witness of the Bible or improve on it, but because they confirm its message that Jesus Christ is the Living Word of God. When responsibly interpreted and faithfully applied, scripture provides divine guidance and inspired insight for our discipleship. As a follow-up question to the statement above, ask: When has scripture provided you with divine guidance and inspired insight? ### Engage Read Luke 24:44–53. This passage begins with Jesus explaining scripture has been fulfilled, specifically from the Law of Moses, the psalms, and the prophets. Jesus opened their minds to understand the scripture. While we are unsure how Jesus specifically did this, we can imagine him sitting with a group of his best friends explaining the passage and affirming them with a hopeful future. One important way we can understand the fulfillment of scripture is through the lens of what God has done and what God is doing. The fulfillment may be understood as a record of God’s redeeming acts in the world. Throughout the Old Testament, God is guiding and shaping the Hebrew people. The Old Testament can be seen as the Israelites understanding who God is and what God desires of God’s people. When Jesus came to show humanity how to love one another and love God, Jesus fulfilled the scripture of the past. When he died and rose again, he fulfilled scripture. When Jesus asked his disciples to continue his mission of proclaiming repentance and forgiveness to the world, he fulfilled scripture. Now, as disciples, we are called to continue as his witnesses spreading God’s love. When we work in soup kitchens, better our neighborhoods, serve at youth camps, or provide ministry at church, we are continuing God’s redemptive acts in the world by serving God’s kingdom. - What redeeming acts of love, compassion, community, and support do you witness in the world? - How do you see yourself involved in the fulfillment of scripture of God’s redemptive acts? ### Respond Prior to class print the “Scripture in Community of Christ” handout at the end of the lesson for each student. In Luke 24:45 Jesus opened the disciples’ minds to scripture. Doing so would help prepare them for the journey ahead as those who would promote the coming reign of God’s kingdom. As 21st-century disciples we are called to appropriately interpret and discern scripture. Community of Christ has developed several affirmations (or common beliefs) about our views on scripture interpretation, appropriate use, inspiration, historical context, and more. Give each student the “Scripture in Community of Christ” handout. If class members have copies of *Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, they may use them. Go through each affirmation with the class. Get the students involved taking turns reading (read in a circle or popcorn style). After reading all affirmations, give each student the “Questions for Individual and Group Reflection and Discussion” handout. Give them time to reflect and answer the questions. After plenty of individual reflection time, involve the class with their answers to the discussion questions (also found in *Sharing in Community of Christ*, pp. 66–67). ### Send One way we can dive deep into scripture is with the Dwelling in the Word spiritual practice. A spiritual practice invites us to take intentional time to be in relationship with God and sometimes others around us. While the following exercise is not a traditional Dwelling in the Word format of someone reading the passage to the student, it still allows them to read, discern, engage, and reflect. Challenge: - Take home the “Dwelling in the Word” handout. - Find a scripture passage from the Gospels that speaks to you. (This encourages students to take time to explore the scriptures on their own.) - Read the passage (at least two times). - Use the handout as a tool of reflection. - End with a prayer. ### Bless Read John 24:50–53. Read: In verses 50–53, Jesus leads his followers to Bethany and blesses them before he ascends. The Greek word the author uses for bless means “to speak well of.” So in this text Jesus speaks well of them and praises them. He is asking God to help them gain peace, wellbeing, and wholeness. We, too, receive Christ’s blessing. As disciples, we are called to share that blessing with others. There are many among us who need blessing. We are to “speak well of” them and ask God’s Spirit to give them peace and wholeness. (*Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament*, p. 77) Have students (or other class facilitators) find a partner. Have one partner share an affirming statement or positive characteristic with the other partner. Make sure everyone has a chance to affirm and be affirmed. ## Children’s Lesson 1 ### Focus Scripture Passage Luke 24:44–53  ### Lesson Focus Jesus blessed his disciples before he left them. We can use our hands and actions to bless.  ### Objectives  *The learners will…*  - hear the scripture passage about Jesus blessing his disciples and ascending to heaven.  - think about what it means when the scripture passage says Jesus was carried up to heaven.  - define blessing means to “speak well of.”  ### Supplies  - Bible   - Construction paper  - Several colors of washable paint  - Paintbrushes  - Sheet of paper for each child  - Crayons or markers  - Scissors for each child  - *Community of Christ Sings* (*CCS*)  ### Notes to Teacher In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:44–53 in *Sermon & Class Helps, Year A: New Testament*, pp. 72–73, available through Herald House.  ### Gather *Activates background knowledge, prepares, and motivates for lesson (15% of total lesson time)* #### Spiritual Practice: Body Prayer  **Say:** Prayer helps us listen for God and follow Jesus. There are many ways to pray. Today, we are going to pray with our bodies.  ##### Body Prayer Excerpted and adapted from The Prayer of St. Patrick—Anonymous) *Use motions and ask children to repeat words and motions:*  Jesus before me (*stretch arms out in front of you*)  Jesus behind me (*stretch arms out behind you*)  Jesus in me (*cross hands over heart*)  Jesus beneath me (*sweep arms toward feet*)  Jesus above me (*raise arms above head*)  Jesus on my right (*stretch both arms to right*) Jesus on my left (*stretch both arms to left*)  Jesus when I lie down (*lie down on floor*)  Jesus when I sit up (*rise to sitting position*) Jesus when I rise (*stand up*)  Jesus in all I say (*point to lips*)  Jesus in all I see (*point to eyes*)  Jesus in all I hear (*point to ears*)  Jesus in all I do (*hug self*)  ### Engage *Invites exploration and interaction (35% of lesson time)* **Say:** Although he had several encounters with his followers after his resurrection, Jesus didn’t stay with his them. Our story today is about what Jesus said and did before he left his disciples.  Read Luke 24:44–53 (paraphrased).  Then Jesus said to his disciples, “These are the words I spoke to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.” He helped them understand what was written about him in the scriptures, and he said to them, “Remember, I told you that I would die and rise again on the third day. You have seen this happen…And now, I am getting ready to send upon you what God has promised; so stay here in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”  Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands, he blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was carried up to heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; and they were continually in the temple blessing God.  **Say:** The scripture passage says that while Jesus was blessing his disciples, he left them and was carried up to heaven. There are many ideas of what or where heaven is. Some people think heaven is up in the sky. Scientists tell us that the sky is not only up; it is all around us. The Earth’s atmosphere begins at our feet, with the air around us. At night, we can imagine how far the sky extends by looking into the stars, but the sky is still all around us. When we look up at the stars at night, we say we are looking up into the heavens, but the heavens are still part of the atmosphere that is all around us.  The Bible uses parables and stories to help us learn about God. When the scripture passage says Jesus was carried up to heaven, it may have been a way for the writer of the scripture passage to help his readers understand that Jesus had been with them, but he was no longer. Heaven is around us, not beyond us. Jesus is with us through the Holy Spirit, even though he is not physically with us.  #### Going Deeper into Basic Beliefs and Enduring Principles  Share with children ideas from the Basic Beliefs statement on Creation and the Enduring Principle Sacredness of Creation. Emphasize God as Creator and our role as caretakers of God’s creation, including “the heavens and the earth and all that is in them.” Ask children to share ideas about how we can take care of God’s creation and why it is important.  #### Basic Beliefs: Creation  As an expression of divine love, God created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them, and called them “good.” Everything belongs to God and should be cherished and used justly according to divine purposes. God sees creation as a whole without separation of spirit and element. God calls people of every generation to join with God as stewards in the loving care of creation.  #### Enduring Principle: Sacredness of Creation  - In the beginning, God created and called it all good.  - Spirit and material, seen and unseen, are related.  - Creation’s power to create or destroy reminds us of our vulnerability in this life.  - God is still creating to fulfill divine purpose.  - We join with God as stewards of care and hope for all creation.  —*Sharing in Community of Christ*, 4th Edition, pp. 28–29, 34  #### Painting the Heavens  Provide construction paper and several colors of paint. Ask children to paint their ideas of the heavens. Remind children that the heavens are all around us, and the sky begins at our feet. So, they can paint anything they see or imagine. Invite children to share their creations.  ### Respond *Takes the learners from hearing to doing (35% of lesson time)* **Say:** The scripture passage says Jesus blessed his disciples. Blessing means to speak well of someone. Jesus was getting ready to leave his disciples, but he wanted to bless them first.  - What do you think Jesus might have said to bless, or speak well of, his disciples?  - If you were going to leave someone for a while, what is something you might say to bless them?  #### Blessing Each Other  Ask children to sit in a circle on the floor. Teacher starts by going around the circle and briefly blessing each child by “speaking well” of them. Depending on size of class, ask children to bless each other by going around the circle and “speaking well” of each child or the child next to them if you have a large group.  #### Blessing Walk  **Say:** “God created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them, and called them ‘good.’ Everything belongs to God…” (Basic Beliefs statement on Creation) We can pay attention to everything around us and speak well of, or bless, anything we see.  Take a walk outside, if weather permits, or around the church or class setting. Remind children that they are “walking in the sky,” since the Earth’s atmosphere is all around us, even when they are inside. Ask children to notice what is around them. Tell children when they see something they would like to bless to tell you. The class will pause the walk to share in blessing. (examples: Bless you, tree. You give me shade. Bless you, car. You take me places. Bless you, kitchen. You help us share food. Bless you, book. You help me learn.) Continue the walk until everyone has had a chance to offer blessing.  ### Send *Explores how the lesson might be lived (10% of lesson time)* **Say:** Jesus lifted up his hands to bless the disciples. We can use our hands to bless people with our actions.  Help children trace one of their hands on a sheet of paper. Ask them to think of someone they can bless today at church. On the hand, ask children to write the person’s name and how they will bless that person today. Help children think of a simple act of blessing they can do today (hug, handshake, helping carry something). Ask children to cut out their hand shape (help younger children as needed) to take with them and give to the person they will bless today.  ### Bless *Time of prayer, praise, blessing, and hope (5% of lesson time)* Read the last verse of the focus scripture passage, “And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy; and they were continually in the temple blessing God.”  Remind children that to bless means to speak well of. When we praise God, we speak well of God.  Sing “Uyai Mose (Come All You People)” *CCS* 84. If children are not familiar with the hymn, teach as a call and response.  Close with a sentence prayer of praise. Stand in a circle and ask each child to complete the sentence, “God, I praise you for…”  ## Children’s Lesson 2 ### Focus Scripture Passage Luke 24:44–53 ### Lesson Focus Ascension of Jesus ### Objectives *The learners will…* - describe the Ascension of Jesus. - tell a way they can be a blessing to others. ### Supplies - Ball - Helium balloon, a picture of balloons, or a picture of a hot air balloon - Blue paper cup for each child, with a small hole in the bottom - Cotton balls - Glue or tape - Small picture of Jesus for each child (end of lesson) - Piece of string or yarn for each child (approximately 18 in / 45.720 cm long) - Small pieces of paper or sticky notes - Pens or pencils ### Note to Teacher In preparation for this lesson, read “Exploring the Scripture” for Luke 24:44–53 in *Sermon & Class Helps, Year B: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Mark)*, pp. 77–78, available through Herald House. ### Gather Hold a ball in the air. Ask children what will happen when you let go of the ball. They will predict that the ball will fall to the ground. Ask children if they can think of anything that rises in the air when you let go of it. Children might mention helium balloons or hot air balloons. If possible, show children a helium balloon, a picture of balloons, or a picture of a hot air balloon. Our scripture passage today is about what happened on the day Jesus rose to heaven. It is called the Ascension of Jesus. ### Engage In today’s story, the disciples had been through a challenging time. On Good Friday, Jesus died on the cross. Then on Easter Sunday, Jesus rose again (became alive again). The disciples were sad when Jesus died and very happy to see him again when he rose from the dead. Now at this point in the story, Jesus is getting ready to leave them again. He wants to make sure they understand why he is leaving. Jesus explained to them that everything that happened was predicted in the scriptures that said Jesus would die and rise again on the third day. The scriptures also said people would go out and tell others about Jesus. Jesus helped the disciples understand these things. After that, Jesus blessed the disciples. Originally, this passage was written in Greek. The original Greek word for bless means “to speak well of.” Jesus speaks well of them and praises them. This means Jesus compliments the disciples and says kind things about them. Jesus asks God to help them have peace. We also have God’s blessing. God sees the good in us and wants us to have peace. As disciples, we are called to share that blessing with others. There are many people in our lives who need blessings. God wants us to “speak well of” them—notice the good things in them—and ask God’s Spirit to give them peace. As Jesus blessed the disciples, he rose into the heavens. Can you imagine what it must have been like for the disciples to watch Jesus rise into the heavens? They weren’t sad, because Jesus had explained that they would have the Holy Spirit to be with them after he left. When he was gone, the disciples worshipped him with joy. - Why do you think Jesus blessed the disciples before he returned to heaven? - What do you think Jesus said to the disciples when he blessed them? - Who are some people in your life who need blessings? Is there someone who is lonely or sad who needs a blessing? - What would Jesus say to us today if he blessed us? - Why were the disciples happy even after Jesus returned to heaven? #### Ascension of Jesus Give each child a cup with a hole in the bottom, cotton balls, a piece of string, and a picture of Jesus. Push the string through the hole in the cup and tie a knot on both ends. Turn the cup upside down. Attach the Jesus picture to the bottom of the string. Attach cotton balls to the cup to make it look like clouds. When children pull the string, Jesus will rise into the cup and appear to be rising into the sky like Jesus at the Ascension. Help children write words of blessing on the opposite side of the image of Jesus. ### Respond Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he blessed the disciples. He said kind things about them and wanted them to feel peace. Blessing Others Invite children to write “blessings” on small pieces of paper or sticky notes. Children could write “God loves you” or “You are special” or “Peace be with you” or something else. Place the notes around the church building so others will feel blessed. ### Send Jesus blessed the disciples before ascending to heaven. One of the sacraments in Community of Christ is called evangelist blessing. > The evangelist blessing is a special prayer of blessing. It provides words of thanksgiving, assurance, and counsel. When the time comes for the blessing, a minister of the church places his or her hands on the head of the person and offers a special prayer of blessing. > > > > A printed copy of the prayer is given to the person after the sacrament. Individuals are encouraged to reread the prayer throughout their lives for guidance and assurance. The sacrament of evangelist blessing is available to all who are at least eight years old. > > > > —[CofChrist.org/our-beliefs](https://cofchrist.org/our-beliefs/) If possible, share your testimony of your evangelist blessing. Discuss with children: How is the sacrament of evangelist blessing like the blessing Jesus gave the disciples before the Ascension? (*It gives assurance; it helps the recipient throughout their life.*) ### Bless We can be a blessing to others! Pass the ball around and have each child say one way they have been blessed by God. Pass the ball again and have each child name one way they can be a blessing to others. End with the prayer, “Thank you, God, for these blessings! Amen.”