“He Who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen. ” Revelation 22:20
These are the final verses of the last book of Holy Scripture. They serve as a fitting closure to all that God has spoken to us in the Bible, even giving us the reminder that our Lord will come again and continue to carry out His plan of salvation.
These are encouraging words and they were originally written to a group of Christians who desperately needed encouragement. Revelation was written during a time of great persecution when Christians were being forced to worship the Emperor rather than God. Those who didn’t were often tortured and killed. St. John reminds them that their hope and treasure in Christ is greater than any trials they will face and he encourages them to remain faithful.
Many have tried to interpret the apocalyptic book of Revelation, but most often such interpretations contradict themselves and take great liberties with the Word of God speculating on details. It all tends to cause more fear and anxiety than encouragement. This is wrong! Revelation’s great message tells us that Christ wins in the end and that faith is not in vain. It exhorts believers to endure, knowing that Jesus is coming again and bringing an end to this fallen world and all that opposes us.
It’s easy to become fearful in these present times. Many are saying that the end is near and pointing to all the evidence in our world as proof. Truth is, we have been living in the end times for the last 2,000 years ever since the Holy Spirit came on Pentecost. God has seen His people through many trials during these times, and He will continue to do so. It is not our work to determine when Christ is coming again, that is the secret of God. We are simply called to remain faithful, to endure and to cling to the promises and hope of His Holy Word. God holds the past, present and future in His loving hands!
Know that you are loved!
Peace and Joy,
Pastor Kilian