To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. Rev. 1:5-6
Dear Lord Jesus, John’s words, early in the Book of Revelation, have the feel of a toast to them. It’s as though we’ve just finished a great banquet and have risen to our feet, with glasses hoisted to honor you, we proclaim in a loud voice “To him who loves us . . .” No one is more worthy of honor than you, and we long for the Day when knowing you in part gives way to knowing you as fully as your glorified Bride will.
Truly, there’s no date on the calendar of my heart more anticipated and longed for than the wedding feast of the Lamb—the banquet of which all other banquets are a mere hint; the mercy meal consummating your great love for us; the bodacious blowout inaugurating of our shared life together in the new heaven and new earth. Even so, hasten that Day, O great Bridegroom; hasten that Day.
Until then, please help me grasp the implications of that one enormous little phrase, “To him who loves us. ” How fitting—that this kiss of grace would be found in the opening words to the concluding book of your whole revelation. What a glorious summation of your work on our behalf. What a magnificent affirmation of the central theme in the history of redemption: “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”
Lord Jesus, keep us from taking your love for granted. Humble us over the cost of your love—the cross. Rescue us when other loves seem more appealing or satisfying. Open our hearts to the immeasurable dimensions of your love. Focus and free us living out the radical implications of your love.
To you be the glory and power forever and ever. Your bride awaits your return. So very Amen we pray, we pray in your matchless name and multiplied mercies.
