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

John, the Apostle who wrote the Gospel according to John and three of the “Epistles” - letters that are included in the Bible. Finally, he wrote this last book of the Bible, the “Revelation to John,” or the “Apocalypse.” (Apocalypse is just the Greek word for Revelation.)

Inspired by the Holy Spirit, John begins this last book of the Bible with the blessing we read in this verse: a blessing for anyone who reads the book out loud so that others can hear it, a blessing for whoever hears it read, paying attention to it, and a blessing for whoever “keeps” what is written in it, that is, whoever keeps these words in mind, remembers them, and pays heed to them, taking the warnings found here to heart in our plans and behavior and the way we live.

The reason this is so important is given: “Because the time is near.”

What time is near? The time when the things written here will be fulfilled.

Over the centuries the words written in this book have caused Christians to modify their own behavior, change the way they vote, pay close attention to the actions of government, and restrain the plans of civil or religious authorities who always want more and more control of the population.

At the same time we realize that the things written here are going to come to pass, no matter how much we might resist, so the prophecies here serve to prepare us for what will come and to be ready to live through it, trusting in God’s faithfulness.

Lord, there are mysteries here that You have revealed, and only You can explain what they mean. As I begin reading my way through this final book of Your Holy Word, give me the understanding that I will need to keep what is written here and apply it to my life. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles