Hello Family of God at Union Church!
I suspect that there is something about our makeup as human beings that draws us to the “big reveal!” no matter what is being revealed. The preponderance and popularity of “big reveal” shows, dealing in everything from house renovations to bachelors and bachelorettes choosing a mate, point to this penchant in our lives. Likewise, the trend of gender reveals for expecting couples, complete with an increasing level of sensational flair, indicates this predilection for the “big reveal.” Maybe it is the power associated with “being in the know” that lends to this craving of ours. Or it could be our deep-seated fear of being left behind and left out. We long to be insiders, to be included in the secret. Isn’t that how gossip, and conspiracy theories, and the divisive rhetoric of our cultural moment works? “My group” (fill in the blank) is in the know, but “those people” are deceived!
Well, there is a “big reveal” that does matter a great deal to us as the people of God. It’s called the Revelation of John. And no, it is not some mysterious puzzle to be unlocked by a select few who have deciphered its clues. It is a word from the Lord, for the Lord’s people in every age, that reveals one of the most important truths for the living of life as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Indeed, Revelation ends with an affirmation that those who read and keep the words of his prophecy will be blessed! (REV 22:7) What is the “big reveal” behind the book of Revelation, that makes a difference for the church in every time and place? It is this: Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” REV 5:11–12 (NIV)
The big reveal is the simple yet profound truth that Jesus, through his suffering as the lamb of God, now sits enthroned over all creation. Which means that Jesus has been and is currently exercising his sovereign reign over all human history for the sake of his church, and to bring to conclusion the rescue of all creation. Now that’s a “big reveal” worth knowing. It makes all the difference for the living of our lives. It is a “big reveal” that gives us cause to live without fear; that moves us to worship; that displaces the narrative of the present age that the power of salvation belongs to political systems, economic prosperity, human-made religion, and basically anything that originates from our efforts! The “big reveal” of John’s visions provides the solid ground upon which we may stand firm as disciples.
As you reflect today on the scene John describes by drawing back the curtain on the heavenly worship that was then, is now, and will continue until he comes, consider the difference this truth makes for your life here and now! By faith, rest secure in the Lord’s sovereign reign. Then, in faith, gather with the people of God at Union Church on Sunday as we humbly join the ongoing heavenly worship of the One who is seated upon the throne, and of the Lamb who was slain, in the power of the Spirit. See you on Sunday!
Peace,
Tom
