Turn Around!

As I read Revelation 1 during my prayer time this morning, several thoughts came to me:

1. Verse 9 says, "I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the Island of Patmos..." I thought about how nice it was to have a companion in suffering and endurance. Now, it immediately occurred to me that I'm not worthy to really be called a companion of that generation of Christians who suffered for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. After all, John was on Patmos - a prison - and I'm at home comfortable and free. John had been persecuted for not worshiping Caesar, and I'm often given respect for leading others to worship Jesus. John was separated from family, friends, and church while I enjoy the company of my wife and friends daily and conversations with loved ones on the cell phone. John's very life was at risk, and I'm safe and protected. Having said that, however, I can -as I think about it - find in my life parallels to John's experiences of suffering. I'm sure you can, too.
2. Oh, that we might see Jesus in these times! Verse 12 says John turned to see Jesus. Today, turn to see him! That you might hear his voice! That you might fall at his feet in worship! That you might be overwhelmed by the glory of his presence "like the sun shining in all its brilliance" (v 16).
3. In that moment when Jesus comes to us in our suffering, he says, "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades" (vv 17-18). I "heard" Jesus say to me this morning: "Don't be afraid. Yes, it was as though you were dead, but you are alive!" Though I may feel (and you can put your sufferings in this thought...) - at times - that my ministry and my influence and my effectiveness are dead, Jesus - who came back from the dead - will make them all alive again! For ever and ever! He who holds the keys will lock up death and Hades and will unlock life and power and strength!

So no matter where you are or what trial you are going through. Turn around! You'll see Jesus!

Have a great Tuesday!