April 12 | Revelation 1:1-6

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DAILY READING

Revelation 1:1-6

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REFLECTION

Yes, Jesus Loves Me

By Elaine Pierce

When the apostle John wrote the book of the Revelation, the young church was growing despite persecution by the Romans. Caesar worship became a major component of Roman civil religion. John and other Christians refused to worship Caesar, and some had their property seized; others were tortured, imprisoned, or exiled. John wrote Revelation from exile on the Island of Patmos in the Aegean Sea.

So what does John tell his fellow persecuted Christians? What does he want them to hear? What will help them get through this time of suffering? He addresses the seven churches in the province of Asia, and he reminds them of the one they serve: Jesus. What does he tell them about Jesus?

• He loves us (v. 5).

• He frees us by his blood (v. 5).

• He rules over earthly kings (yes, that includes the Roman Caesars!) (v. 5).

  
  
  
  

Revelation is the only apocalyptic book in the Bible, and I will admit that parts of it are very hard to fully understand. Scholars have interpreted it in a variety of ways over the centuries; however, the book's central purpose is not to arouse speculation about the future. Instead, let's focus on who it is we serve, on what he has done for us and that ultimate victory is his, not those who oppose him. In the end, Jesus returns as the triumphant king. A king who loves us, who frees us, and who rules over all, forever and ever in all eternity.

The early church experienced great persecution. Today according to the 2026 World Watch List, more than 388 million Christians around the world face high levels of persecution. America is not one of those places. And yet, we will have sorrow and suffering. Jesus makes this clear in John 16:33:

In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

As we unpack Revelation the next several weeks, let's pray for hearts that are open to what God wants to reveal to us. Yes, Jesus loves us. The Bible tells us so!

PRAYER

Lord, I echo the words of Amazing Grace when I think about spending eternity with you: when we've been there ten thousand years, bright shining as the sun, we've no less days to sing God's praise then when we've first begun. Amen.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ELAINE PIERCE

It is a delight and joy to write Sunday's UALC Blog post. I have been a UALC member for 20+ years and I value our community of believers. I draw strength from God's Word, and it is my hope that you join me in seeking to grow closer to Him as we read, study, and pray together. I've been married to Gene for 47 years, and we have four grown children and nine grandchildren. It is an exciting time to be alive, and I count it all joy to serve him, even in the midst of challenges. To God be the glory, for the great things he is doing!