December 9

Revelations 1

The book of Revelation is a book of hope and victory.  Our great hope is that one day all of Christs' promises will come true.  The word Revelation itself means uncover, or unveil.  We know that Scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit (2Tim. 3:16)  so as we read this passage, we see The Holy Spirit revealing to John the glorified Christ.  His full identity is revealed to John along with God's plan for Jesus' second coming and plan to establish His Kingdom along with His ultimate victory over evil.  While many people try to figure out an exact time table of events, perhaps there's a bigger picture to be focused on.  We all know the "time is near" (v.3).  God The Father knew when He would send His Son to enter the world, wrapped in cloth, to be born and take His first nap in a bed of straw.  Only He knows the day of His return.  A glimpse into the bigger plan is found in Joel 2:13 "Rend your heart, return to the Lord your God for He is gracious and compassionate".  God's message from today's reading filled me with hope that by opening our hearts to God, we are putting ourselves in a position to receive His grace and mercy on the day He returns.  Jesus, The Christ, is coming back, and will be leading the armies of heaven, destroying those who oppose Him and those who haven't put their life under His Lordship.  As we prepare our hearts for the birth of The Messiah, I pray we spread the message of the hope He brings.  O Come let us adore Him - Christ The Lord.



Randi