It's a sad commentary that most of our LCMS congregations, due to a lack of attendance, no longer have special services on Ascension Day. 

 We can place our trust either in human strength (designated in this passage of Scripture by the word "princes") or in the Lord God, who has revealed Himself and His will for us most clearly in His Son Jesus Christ.

     This may sound like a ridiculous question to ask a “church crowd,” but what is the Church? 

What can a preacher possibly say or do today that would be a fitting encore to proclaiming the glorious and joyful resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead?

The rhetorical question at the beginning of our text ("What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits to me?") lets us know in no uncertainty terms that there is no way that we can possibly repay the Lord for His blessings--that all we can do is eagerly receive those blessings with thanksgiving.