To see, to know, and to understand…. (devo reflection)

Revelation 1:1 The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John….

I approached this morning’s reading with some trepidation. Revelation, in my mind, has always been mysterious, elusive, and frightening. I’ve never intentionally read and studied this book before, but those were my solid impressions.

Revelation 1:3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

But God. As I watched the summary video of the book of Revelation, I was reminded that this book, as with so many others, began as a letter to seven churches to address certain issues occurring at the time. For some reason, that familiar structure brings me great comfort as I begin this book.

Revelation 1:4 John, To the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne….

Precious Savior, Thank You for meeting me each morning, for understanding my fears and concerns, for sending me comfort and assurance. Be with me as I read and study this chapter. Help me to see, to know, and to understand Your word. Amen.

Revelation 1:10-11 On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.”

Have a blessed day.