Revelation 1-2

December 24

Revelation 1-2

     It is Christmas Eve and our reading today reminds us that Jesus is coming back to claim those who follow Him. Just as no one knew when He would arrive the first time He came, He will come like a thief in the night. We may not expect it, but we can be ready for His return. He will come to bring judgment and restoration to a lost and broken world.

     Though He died, He lives and He holds the keys of death and Hades. Jesus’ letters to the churches addresses their strengths, gives warnings about their weaknesses, and reminds them of the advantage of overcoming the pull of the world. Life in this world is a struggle. There are multiple challenges. But there are rewards for our perseverance. Those who overcome will; receive the right to eat from the tree of life, will not be hurt by the second death, will receive some of the hidden manna, will receive a white stone with a new name, will receive authority over the nations, will be dressed in white and their name will never be blotted out of the book of life, Jesus will acknowledge them before the Father, will become a pillar in the temple of God, and will receive the right to sit on the throne with Jesus.

     The rewards God pours out on us for persevering with Him, far outweighs the empty promises of the world. Some grow weary wondering when. We do not know when, but just as He told us about the first coming through the prophets, He also told us about His return. He is coming back to wrap up what He has already begun. He is coming back to make all things new.