We often skip right over the next major event in Jesus’ life after the resurrection: his ascension. We don’t really get why it matters, so we just move right past it. But Jesus explained that it’s better for us if He ascends to the Father than stays physically with us (John 16:7). Why is that?

There are actually a host of reasons: Jesus’ rule and reign over all things has been established (Philippians 2:9-11), His sending of the Holy Spirit as a result (John 16:7-15), His intercession for us before the Father (Hebrews 7:25), etc.

But one of the greatest benefits is…

Our Access to God in Prayer

Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
-Hebrews 4:14-16

Jesus ascended, “passing through the heavens,” in order that we might go to God through Him. Specifically, the author of Hebrews encourages us to pray in full confidence that God will hear us and help us in our time of need.

We don’t have to pray in a certain direction, at a certain time of day, or with a certain person. Instead, the good news of Jesus’ ascension is that we simply go to God through Jesus who sits in heaven with the Father.

God will hear our prayers because of Jesus’ work and righteousness as he intercedes for us.

So let’s listen to the author of Hebrews and go confidently and regularly to God in prayer.