I have always liked the last book of the Bible! I especially find helpful its opening which declares “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Almighty. Do not be afraid” and its closing which promises “God will wipe away every tear and death will be no more.” It’s easy to get lost in the wild symbolism of the book’s “apocalyptic literature” so I focus on the very straightforward message that the crucified, risen and ascended Christ gives to his persecuted, struggling church on earth. Here are some quotes from the early chapter that I hope you’ll find inspiring and encouraging as we face many challenges today.
I, John, your brother who share with you in Jesus the persecution and the kingdom and the patient endurance heard the voice of Jesus say to us “Do not be afraid. I was dead and see I am alive forever.’ To his church, Jesus says this:
“I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance. Be faithful unto death and I will give you the crown of life. I know your love, faith, service and patient endurance. Hold fast to what you have until I come. I will come to you and eat with you and you with me. Hold fast and let no one seize your crown. Here is a call for the endurance and faithfulness of the saints!”
In addition to an encouraging message from the heavenly Jesus delivered to his struggling, suffering church on earth, the Book of Revelation also has several scenes of heavenly worship that break out. Here is one that I share with you who patiently, faithfully and prayerfully endure:
