Revelation 19:11-13 I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood and his name is the Word of God.

God has been gracious to us his creatures. He has not left us in the dark. The Book of Revelation was written to give all believers a solid foundation for their faith. It is the vault that contains the revelation of Jesus Christ and your faith is the key. That is why in Chapter 1 verse 2, John is allowed a glimpse into things future and eternal and proceeds to share with us what he saw – that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. No wonder then that in verse 3 the promise is given: “Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.” There is no other “encyclopedia” for living life as a child of God except the word of God because his word is the measurement of all things.

The final chapters of the Book of Revelation close out time as we know it. The redeemed are united with their Savior and Lord, and rejoice: “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.” He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. (Chapter 19) Satan and everyone who has opposed God are judged and consigned to the lake of fire. (Chapter 20). After this cleansing God creates a new place – the New Jerusalem, the Holy City; and new order: “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” (Chapter 21:3-4). Then there is the Tree of Life flowing from the throne of God – “No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face and his name will be on their foreheads.” (Chapter 22:3-4).

Finally, a perfect place and a perfect life! John’s vision comes to an end and he is reminded that the event that ushers in the end of time is the return of Christ – “Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” (Chapter 22:12-13).

Blessed be the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come. Blessed be the Lord God Almighty who reigns for evermore!