MAY 16 | Revelation 19:1-5
- Vincent Jerrome
- May 16
- 2 min read
DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Word of Praise in Final Days: Hallelujah!
By Vincent Jerrome
Only found in this section of Revelation in the entire New Testament, Hallelujah is a Hebrew word that breaks down to simply “Praise the Lord”. The multitude of heaven cries out this very word in praise as Babylon is finally fallen. This is in direct contrast to the kings and merchants of earth who cry out “Alas!” at her fall. In a single hour, she has been laid to waste to the praise of heaven and the morning of earth. The smoke arising from her evokes celebration in the multitude and fear in the worldly leaders.
Who Babylon is to these two seems to be vastly different.
Babylon to us may bring memories of the exile that the Israelites faced for hundreds of years or even the Tower of Babble in Genesis.
Babylon is a clear representation for all things worldly. Greed, idol worship, slavery, and all types of immorality. This is shown throughout the Old Testament stories, as well as how the Israelites lives had changed while under the Babylonian rule. This was a harsh captivity of the Hebrew people, which started with the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple itself.
But just as the Tower of Babble fell in Genesis, soon too did their empire fall to Persia within days of battle. This marked a point in which the Israelites could then go back to their homeland under Cyrus the Great, and rebuild the destroyed Temple. Not without fear of how hard this may be, but they would faithfully return nonetheless, singing praise to the Lord along the way.
I believe here in Revelation, Babylon can be seen as not only the immorality and idolatry of the world, but even the temptation of these things itself. This is indicated in the language and description of her and what role she plays. Corruption of kings, incitement of debauchery, leading the world astray with false promises of luxury. Keeping the world captive to sin, with the seduction of all its earthly pleasures.
God’s judgement on Babylon is final and true. Temptation itself is no more! We are no longer in captivity to sin and earthly immorality. Through Christ we will return home! That itself is the best reason to shout: Hallelujah!
PRAYER
Praise be to you Lord that we may return home for worship. A new Heaven and New Earth shall be created for us as we return. Just as the temple was rebuilt in Jerusalem. Just as Christ was resurrected from death on the cross. Let us sing your praise because we know sin and temptation will have no part in your beautiful new creation. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord. Amen.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vincent Jerrome
I have grown up at UALC doing everything from baptism, VBS, confirmation, youth group, and work with FESTA. I have loved it all and am proud to be a part of this community. My parents Corey & Jennifer made sure faith was first and foremost in our family, and Cassidy and I plan on raising our son Harvey the same way!
Insightful and well-written. Thank you and God bless you for your contribution to these daily devotions!
Thank you, Vincent, for sharing this devotion today. Hallelujah, is the only thing we need to say as we give God all the praise...only for his glory. This devotional is a perfect beginning for any day.