A Wondrous Vision Beyond Christmas

Revelation 1:7-20

The story is told of a man's little granddaughter, who was found one day diligently pounding on his laptop's word processor. She told him that she was writing a story. “What's your story all about?” he asked. “Oh, Papa, I don't know,” she replied, “I haven't learned to read yet!” I'm sure that when I find my little granddaughter, Lilia, writing such a story, it will be a good one! I am also sure that you have been very blessed as this book's story has unfolded before your eyes—a story of a wondrous vision. Throughout the Christmas Season, we saw it through the eyes of Moses, Jesus, and Paul, as well as in many aspects of the Christmas Story itself. And yet there is something else we all must see—a wondrous vision beyond Christmas. Those who have eyes to see it, see it!

In a vision of the last days, Revelation 1: 9-10 tells us, “I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the Kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet...” Yes, it was the voice of Jesus Himself, and John, “turned to see the voice.” Imagine! A voice that could be seen! But isn't that actually the essence of a wondrous vision—a message from God that must be seen and obeyed? In this case, it was Jesus Himself. Oh, not the baby in the manger, or the itinerant preacher of Galilee, but the risen and glorified Christ, as He can—and must—be seen today! Daniel saw Him, and told the story in 10:5-6—now it was John's turn. As Jesus walked among the lamps of His churches, He could be seen in majesty. With a golden sash across His chest, one might think of a high ranking official at a formal event. But that is not the vision—the Greek word for this “sash” speaks of a yoke and servitude that took Him to the Cross to set His people free. Not only that, but His hair is now white as snow or wool, and His eyes are on fire!

Isaiah saw it—”Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: but if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” (1:18-20) Hebrews 4:12 saw this sword in the mouth of the Lord, too—”For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword...,” cutting through everything, and even revealing the intents of the heart. They all saw it; they all told their story. Do you see it, and will you let your entire life tell the story? The Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is coming again soon—will you be ready? The Psalmist says, “Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!” (107:21) In the days ahead, let your whole heart and life pound out the story, for Jesus has let His people go—free to love and serve Him! Praise God—may your story be a very good one!

~ Rev. Roy D. Warren, Jr.