Ponder God’s Gift
Scripture Reading — Revelation 7:1-3
“Do not harm the land or the sea or the trees until we put a seal on the foreheads of the servants of our God.”
In our reading today we see another scene unfolding from the opening of the sixth seal. In the previous scene we saw everyone reeling as the foundations of the earth tore apart and people had nowhere to hide. And now we see God’s mighty angels holding back the four winds so that God’s servants can receive his seal of protection. All who have faith in God and the saving power of the Lamb (Jesus) will be spared from the oncoming destruction.
Which group do you identify with? Are you in the company of God’s servants, people who live by faith? Or do you keep trying to run and hide away from God?
The tearing open of creation leaves no uncertainty. When God says the time has come, there will no longer be anywhere to hide. At this point we need to ponder God’s gift of grace. Because of Jesus, we can receive “the seal of the living God,” for he has conquered death and says, “I give them eternal life . . . no one will snatch them out of my hand” (John 10:28).
God’s seal on us is God’s way of saying, “I am your God; you are my people. I love and care for you more than you will ever understand. I am not here to let destruction come upon you but to give life to all who put their trust in me.” (See John 3:16.)
The gift of God’s seal is yours to embrace—a call and commitment to stand with all who identify as servants of the living God.
Lord and Savior, your grace and goodness are wide and deep. Thank you for your love and your protective care. Amen.
About the author — Jim Poelman
Pastor Jim Poelman and his wife, Linda, served five churches in Ontario and British Columbia for thirty-nine years. They enjoy family gatherings with their extended household of children and grandchildren—29 members in all—often creating lots of happy noise.
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