December 19, 2016

December 19, 2016


If you consider the Bible from beginning to end, it's a pretty interesting journey.  The beginning - literally - The Beginning starts with beauty, grandeur and hope.  In those first few pages the universe is created, the earth is populated and God gives man a prime spot in creation..then man messes up.  A good portion of what follows is humanity making sure they are consistent in their rebellion.  The New Testament is like the first Star Wars movie - a new hope - His name is Jesus.  For the first time in millennia things have changed.  Still, things were going to be grim for humanity outside of Christ, and those in Christ were promised a tough job continuing Jesus' ministry of the Gospel.  So, we were given the final chapter - Revelation to motivate us through the mess.  I particularly like the final pages of Revelation - today's verse is especially inspiring.  Jesus is coming again...soon.  That was written 2,000 years ago.  I guess that when time is meaningless to you 2,000 years and counting is soon.  I'm also confident that is part of the reward He brings.  One day, the years on earth will be just a blink of an eye to someone without a watch, calendar or schedule.  There is reason to pause and meditate upon this verse.  The promise is Christ's return and reward - "to repay each one for what he has done."

It does make you think - in light of what Jesus has done for me, for us.  Another verse comes to mind, "while we were still sinners Christ died for us."  So, comes the question, He came in love, giving the gift of grace, He's returning with more gifts of love - how have I shown Him love in the meantime?

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