Chapter 72—Song at Christ’s Resurrection and
Ascension
Heaven’s Welcome to the Risen Lord—At the resurrection they
[the soldiers guarding Jesus’ tomb] saw the brightness of the angels
illuminate the night, and heard the inhabitants of heaven singing with
great joy and triumph.—
The Desire of Ages, 780
.
Songs by the Angel Host—They [the soldiers guarding the tomb]
see Jesus come forth from the grave, and hear Him proclaim over the
rent sepulcher, “I am the resurrection, and the life.” As He comes forth
in majesty and glory, the angel host bow low in adoration before the
Redeemer, and welcome Him with songs of praise.—
The Desire of
Ages, 780
.
Praise to Christ at His Ascension—All heaven was waiting to
welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As He ascended, He
led the way, and the multitude of captives set free at His resurrection
followed. The heavenly host, with shouts and acclamations of praise
and celestial song, attended the joyous train.
As they drew near to the city of God, the challenge is given by the
escorting angels—“Lift up your heads, O ye gates; And be ye lift up,
[459]
ye everlasting doors; And the King of glory shall come in.”
Joyfully the waiting sentinels respond—“Who is this King of
Glory?” This they say, not because they know not who He is, but
because they would hear the answer of exalted praise—“The Lord
strong and mighty, The Lord mighty in battle! “Lift up your heads,
O ye gates; Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; And the King of
glory shall come in.”
Again is heard the challenge, “Who is this King of glory?” for the
angels never weary of hearing His name exalted. The escorting angels
make reply—“The Lord of hosts; He is the King of glory.”
Psalm
24:7-10
.
Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic
throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music....
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