John was in exile on the island of Patmos. Despite his confinement on a small island, God allowed John's spirit to soar. John received spectacular visions of the risen Christ, the throne room of heaven, and Christ's return to make all things new. John received prophetic visions of a world that would be quite different from the one he knew. Why did John receive these revelations? Jesus wanted his followers to be encouraged during times of suffering and upheaval.
John's revelations paint a picture of the good news of the kingdom of God. The people of his day needed to know that the oppressive Roman government would not have the last word on history. Jesus has ushered in a kingdom that will never be overtaken. John was echoing Jesus' message-"The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news" (Mark 1:15).
John was undeterred from teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. John woke up with Jesus on his mind. He shared his testimony with others about the grace, mercy, and peace that Jesus can bring to anyone. The churches were encouraged to be a living testimony of God's grace. Why? Because Jesus is coming soon.
Christians today hold on to that news-Jesus is coming soon! We believe this great expectation and hope!
Come, Lord Jesus-we are ready!
<p>Dear Lord, may we tell others today about you-with our words, our actions, and our whole lives. May we live each day in the sure hope that you are coming soon. Amen.</p>
About the author — Reginald Smith
Dr. Reginald Smith is senior pastor at Roosevelt Park Community Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he has served for seventeen years. He has also served as a pastor in Paterson, New Jersey. He and his wife, Sharon, have three daughters, Janelle, Katrina, and Mariah.
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