“Then he opened their minds so they could understand the scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it stands written that the Christ would suffer and would rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And look, I am sending you what my Father promised. But stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
Then Jesus led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands, he blessed them. Now during the blessing he departed and was taken up into heaven. So they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple courts blessing God.” Luke 24: 44-52

Something in this passage got my attention as I prepared my church’s bulletins. It wasn’t until Christ died, rose, and returned that his followers finally were so gobsmacked that they drop their conception of what the Messiah would be and began to see Jesus for what He is … and listen. Really listen. His actions opened their minds, finally.
Are we any different? How often do I pray for God to instigate things the way I think they should happen instead of opening my heart, mind, and soul to His will–trusting He will come through in the best way possible, no matter how weird or hard it seems? I can recall times that He has literally taken away my breath. All I can do is drop to my knees and gaze up at His glory. Then, I am humbled by His Majesty and become attentive…
Then I am willing to let go of the reins and let God lead me.
See what happens next–He takes his followers as far as Bethany. Not up into heaven with Him. Nope, they had a mission to fulfill here on earth. But He promised to send a Helper–the Holy Spirit, to guide them through the tough times ahead.
Jesus still does the same today. He teaches us, then takes us so far and tells us, “Here is your assignment. I will equip you in time, at just the right time, so hang in and wait for my signal. And by the way, you are not alone in this. I know this world is a tough one. I will be with you in Spirit. Rely on me. I will guide you every step of the way.”
What will it take to get your attention so you drop your agenda and take up the cross instead? The road will probably not be an easy one, but if you open yourself to His will, you will walk side by side with God and be blessed (content in His presence) despite the circumstances that face you.
So they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy… Lord help us to do the same. Stay when You say stay, go when You say go and be open to learn from You every step of the way.