Reflection on John 20:17 - The Ascending Savior’s Message
In John 20:17, Jesus said to Mary Magdalene, "Don't hold me, for I haven't yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brothers, and tell them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'" This profound moment captures the transition from resurrection to ascension, inviting believers into a deeper understanding of Christ’s mission and our relationship with God.
Sin: The Barrier to Holding Onto Christ
Mary’s desire to hold Jesus reflects a natural human longing to cling to the tangible presence of the risen Christ. Yet, Jesus gently redirects her, revealing that the full work of redemption is not yet complete until He ascends to the Father. Sin often causes us to grasp tightly to the temporary, hindering our spiritual growth and our ability to fully embrace God’s unfolding plan.
Our own sin can manifest as an attempt to hold onto past comforts or familiar ways rather than stepping forward in faith. This holding on can prevent us from experiencing the fullness of grace that comes through Christ’s ascension and intercession.
Grace: The Invitation to New Life and Relationship
Jesus’ instruction to Mary to go and tell His brothers about His ascension highlights the new relationship believers share with God — one marked by intimacy and access. Through His resurrection and ascension, Jesus opens the way for us to call God “Father” and to live empowered by the Spirit.
This verse reminds us that our faith journey is not about clinging to past experiences but about moving forward in trust and obedience to God’s leading. Jesus’ ascension signifies that He is preparing a place for us and interceding on our behalf, inviting us into a dynamic, ongoing relationship with the divine.
Believers today are called to embrace this grace by sharing the good news and living as witnesses to the resurrection power that transforms lives.
- Acknowledge your need for God’s grace and confess your sins honestly.
- Repent by turning away from any spiritual complacency or reliance on past experiences.
- Embrace Jesus as your risen Lord who has ascended and intercedes for you.
- Trust in God’s plan, even when it calls you to let go of old patterns or fears.
- Commit to sharing the message of Christ’s resurrection and ascension with others.
- Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to live a life that honors God daily.
- Remain steadfast in prayer, cultivating a personal and intimate relationship with your Heavenly Father.
"Don't hold me, for I haven't yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brothers, and tell them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'" — John 20:17 (WEB)
In this passage, Jesus teaches us that spiritual growth requires movement — a willingness to release what we cling to and to step forward in faith toward the Father. Our journey is marked by grace that invites us into deeper communion and purpose.
Let us, therefore, respond to Christ’s call with repentance and renewal, embracing the hope and power of His resurrection and ascension, so that we may live as faithful witnesses to His love and glory.