Read the Book: October - DecemberSample

THE WHITE HORSE

When I think about the book of Revelation, my mind immediately jumps to the end times with all of the crazy poetic imagery and angels and birds and swords. In studying chapter 19, we can know that John’s readers at the time would have understood that he was using symbolism and imagery from Old Testament accounts of the downfalls of major empires that rebelled against God (Babylon, Edom, Tyre) to point out the rebellion against God happening in the Roman Empire. 

Oh! That’s quite a bit more approachable—real-life events that were happening, versus a terrifying celestial shakedown. I don’t want to disregard the angels and the shakedown completely, but if I just focus for a moment on the real-life events and human rebellion, I can ask myself what John’s readers would have understood about them that I could glean from too. 

I am reminded that this type of rebellion has happened since the dawn of time and will happen until Jesus returns. Because of sin, it’s our human nature to rebel against God. This rebellion happens even in my own heart on a more regular basis than I care to admit, as I stumble and falter and replace Jesus on the throne of my heart with lesser gods. 

At the same time, I am reminded of the grace that this rider on the white horse brings, that the blood on His robe is His own, shed for His bride, for me. The fate of the empires that rebelled and of the prostitute in this passage is certainly a great case for obedience and service to Jesus... but even more so is the promise outlined in this passage for those that do not rebel, for those that are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb, for those whom He loves! 

So may I forget more and more these lesser gods and the inclination to rebel, and may I dwell more and more with He who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords—He who has already won the battle, birds and swords and all.

FAMILY CONNECTION: 

Have you ever been excited? Have you ever been so excited that you screamed with joy? As a family, talk about some times where you were bursting with excitement. Maybe it was a surprise birthday or winning a game or tournament. In Revelation, we see that when God returns there will be many voices crying, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.” Take some time to celebrate the things that God has done and what He will do. As Christians, we look forward to the day we can celebrate Jesus' return!