Listen

The one who bears witness to these things says, “Yes, I’m coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!

The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all.

Revelation 22:20-21

Think

Imagine being one of the early readers of John’s revelation. Many years have dragged on since the events of the gospels. In fact, it has been so long that even the apostles have died. Your generation is the first without eyewitnesses. You have been taught that Jesus is coming back soon, but what does the word “soon” even mean anymore?

You are out of step with your neighbors, who all worship the Roman gods. They believe that these gods control the weather, the marketplace, even the outcome of battles. Your refusal to worship them threatens everything, and so you and your family are not very popular. Will you remain faithful?

John’s strange letter was meant to be an encouragement to the people living in those times. The voice of the Living Water arrives at the end of the book, inviting its hearers to live in hope. “I am coming back, it’s true! You are not alone!” John pronounces his benediction here, one we can all cling to: the grace of God with us.

Ellen Di Giosia

Pray

Oh Living Water, help me to hope in you.

When I am discouraged, make me faithful, that I might experience your grace and love.

Amen.

Go

Did you hear it?

The Living Water, rushing all around and flowing into the ocean of God?

Follow it there, and immerse yourself in God’s love.