When they reached Emmaus, Cleopas and his friend asked Jesus to stay with them. But Jesus left.

40 days later, Jesus ascended to heaven, leaving all his followers behind, staring at the sky.

His leaving was the best thing for them. And for us.

It forced all of us to pursue a new mission.

This week’s Bible passage: Isaiah 40:1-11

Weekly Strength resource: 52 Weeks of Strength for Men (ebook, paperback, study guide)

Other resources:

• Chris Bolinger’s other devotional: Daily Strength for Men
• Mike Hatch’s book: Manhood: Empowered by the Light of the Gospel
• Relational men’s discipleship programs: CLC

This episode originally appeared as Weekly Strength 3.06: Big Topics — Mission on Throwing Mountains.