’Twas a vision of John on the isle called Patmos,
Where the heavens revealed what the future would show.
Seven churches were written to, each with their plight,
To stay strong in their faith through the dark of the night.
Then a throne room appeared with a Lamb who was slain,
Holding scrolls sealed with wisdom and justice to reign.
Four horsemen rode forth with destruction and dread,
Bringing war, death, and famine where’er they were led.
The angels sang “Noel” as the trumpets were blown,
Though the wrath of the Lord on the wicked was shown.
A dragon, a beast, and a harlot were cast,
For their power and kingdoms would nevermore last.
Then the heavens were opened, a rider appeared,
On a white horse of triumph, with justice revered.
He was crowned King of Kings, every knee bowed to Him,
As the battle was won and the world grew dim.
The earth was remade, free from sin and decay,
And God walked with His people in glory to stay.
’Twas a promise of hope through the trial and strife,
For the faithful would dwell in eternal new life.
Any year where you can read the New Testament with a group of people you are doing life with in Jesus is a good year! What a great blessing to daily, weekly and monthly reflect together as we have been doing. I’m sure the heart of the Father is pleased at all of the times we have talked about Him together.
What better way to complete this year than look toward the next chapter of the “book” that has yet to be written? Much like the preparation of the Christmas season (that seems to begin earlier and earlier with each new year!), we have been living in a season where the anticipation is growing and growing that Jesus is coming again.
The book of Revelation is an ending and a beginning. It’s the end of the book as we know it, yet simultaneously tells us that there is so much yet to come. Similarly, we can reflect on how Christmas Eve is the day when everything culminates for the season and the entire year comes to a summit. Somehow joining the two, we can see how the times we have been living in have been pointing to the second coming of Christ. Now, more than ever, we see that anticipation building and growing, and we know His return draws nigh.
We laugh at the children who have been trying their hardest to obey and “be good” to make Santa’s nice list, but we can rejoice knowing we are labouring for a real crown and a true reward that we cannot yet see.
We are ending our year reminding ourselves that we run to hear “well done”.
He is coming.
Not Santa! Jesus. The King of Kings. From the manger to modern day, we will see His throne, hear the trumpets, see the heavens open, and see the earth restored. End this year the same way Revelation ends the book - in such a way that it is the beginning of everything yet to come.