Not Abandon, but Advancing

Summary

Although it may appear that Jesus abandons earth at his ascension, nothing could be further from the truth. He leaves the earth not to escape it but to rule over it. Eastern Orthodox Christians capture this spiritual reality in their paintings and mosaics of “Christ Pantocrator” (Greek, “all-powerful”). Christ Pantocrator typically inhabits the domed ceiling of a church. From there, he looks down on the earth, one hand typically raised in blessing. Orthodox Christians know we are not alone in this world. Christ is enthroned in highest heaven, observing all that takes place among God’s children on earth. We are not abandoned: we are advancing the Gospel of Jesus, one step at a time, one heart at a time, one life at a time.