All His Brilliance
Scripture Reading — Revelation 1:9-20
His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.
As Jesus taught and as John experienced, following Jesus will likely mean that others will resist and reject us. In some places, identifying with Jesus might even lead to prison, beatings, and death. The darkness of people who are opposed to the light of Christ can be powerful and violent. John notes here that as followers of Christ we are companions in suffering and, as well, in “patient endurance” as we await Jesus’ return.
John knew Jesus. He had lived with Jesus for three years. He was there at Jesus’ transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8). He saw Jesus after the resurrection and when Jesus ascended into heaven. John knew what Jesus looked like. But none of that prepared John for when Jesus showed up in all his brilliance. John fell down like a dead man.
Yet in this encounter Jesus immediately extended hope, saying, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!”
Jesus said this to John, and he says it to us. Death, the greatest weapon that is opposed to God’s abundant life, has not diminished Jesus. The present darkness that we experience has already lost the war. Jesus’ reign has begun. He is alive and overflowing with more glory and light than we could ever imagine.
Lord Jesus, strengthen us with certainty in your victory over death. Give us glimpses of your brilliance to sustain us now, even as we look forward to the fullness of your presence. Amen.
About the author — Chris Schoon
Chris Schoon lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has served as a pastor in both the U.S. and Canada. He also served as the U.S. director of Thrive, a ministry of the Christian Reformed Church in North America focused on equipping and encouraging churches and ministry leaders. Chris enjoys hiking, playing board games, and hanging out with family and friends. He is married to Hennie, and they have four adult children.
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