Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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The Living one among the Lampstands 

Bible Reading: Revelation 1:9-20

Key Verse Vs 17-18

V 17-18 “When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades”.

DEVOTION

The book of Revelation opens with “the revelation from Jesus Christ” (Rev1:1), unveiling Him as the exalted and victorious Lamb of God. Before receiving the prophetic message for the seven churches in Asia Minor, John encounters the risen and glorified Lord in overwhelming majesty.
At the sight of Jesus, John falls down in fear. This is the same John who once leaned on Jesus’ bosom at the Last Supper and called himself “the disciple whom Jesus loves.” Yet this revelation of Christ in His glory is on an entirely different level. But Jesus does not leave John in fear.
Jesus reaches out, touches him, and speaks words of comfort: “Do not be afraid.”
Jesus declares that He is the First and the Last, the Living One who conquered death and now lives forever. He holds the keys of death and Hades, showing His complete authority and divinity.
This is also how Jesus meets us in our moments of fear and uncertainty. He reaches out, touches our lives with His presence, and lifts us with His Word. He speaks through Scripture, and at times gently whispers to our hearts, restoring peace and confidence.
Our response matters. Are we humbling ourselves before Him? Are we bringing our concerns to Him in prayer? Are we seeking Him through His Word and waiting expectantly for His answer in His time?
John’s fear is replaced with peace because he hears the voice of Jesus. The One who speaks is the Almighty, the ruler over all, the Living One who holds the keys.

PRAYER

 Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your unfailing love and constant presence. You have promised never to leave us nor forsake us. Help us to trust in You always, to seek You earnestly, and to rest in Your assurance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Jesus holds the keys so we do not need to fear today or tomorrow. The One who holds the future is holding your hand.


Sherly Thomas
St. Thomas MTC, New York

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