Suffering for a little while.... When I think about how John was left for exile on the island of Patmos, he wasnt martyred like the other disciples. Each one had been martyred for his faith in Christ. But rather than make a martyred hero of John, the local Roman authorities decided to exile him to the island of Patmos off the coast of Asia Minor. By the end of the first century, he was Jesus last personal disciple still alive. Based on historical facts, sixty five years had passed since the crucifixion and resurrection of the Savior. John had been faithful all those years. But now he faced the greatest trial of his life. He was being abandoned on an unpopulated and deserted island. A political prisoner, he was left alone to die in exile. Here we find the disciple whom Jesus so dearly loved. John had been with the Savior from the beginning. He had left the family fishing business to follow the carpenter of Nazareth. He was in the inner circle with Peter and James. At the Last Supper, he was seated next to Jesus and leaned over on his shoulder to talk to Him. He was the only disciple to show up at the cross. It was there that Jesus entrusted the care of His mother, Mary, to His beloved disciple (John 19:25-27). But now, John was alone, abandoned on an isolated island. He was facing, what felt like death and wondering about the future. He thought, what would happen to those fragile churches in mainland? How long would the persecution last? What about the Savior s promise to return? Many of us are facing the issue of abandonment and feeling alone. Though youre surrounded by people, you still feel deserted. Some of you are currently in the state of being exile. Youve lost hope. You feel like youre covered in darkness. There may be light on the outside but youre dark on the inside. Like John, you felt as though youve done everything right. You went to Church early Sunday mornings, youve preached the gospel to many, you even gave your last to individuals who turned around and didnt appreciate you. Now youre lost and deserted. The question ring in the back of your mind, why hast thou forsaken me?. At this moment, do not faint! Theres a Heavenly Intrusion taking place. Gods getting ready to resurrect your situation. When Jesus appeared before John...A booming voice broke the silence annoucing: I am the Alpha and the Omega...Who is and Who was and Who is to come (Rev. 1:8). When John turned to see who was speaking to him, he saw the risen Christ in all of His divine glory and heavenly splendor. The Savior had not abandoned him. God is about to invade your situation. He has not forsaken you. Hes coming in His glorious splendor. Though the vision may tarry...it is only for a appointed time. I pray the grace of God rest, rule, and abide in you. Who is this for? #Endurance
Posted on: Mon, 01 Sep 2014 11:15:37 +0000
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