Category: Devotionals

One of the greatest comeback stories in musical history finished with this glorious vision that comes through - and in spite of! - a group of all-too-human but Christ-loved churches. If you're worried about the political future of our country, take 6 minutes with me and Revelation 4.

Music today: 'Worthy is the Lamb that was Slain' from George Handel's 'Messiah'. Something I didn't mention is that despite his financial plight, Handel donated the proceeds of his very successful initial performance of 'Messiah' to free 140 people from debtor's prison. God has been using this music in similar ways ever since.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZoxsWl7-XA

We use the phrase 'open door' all the time in our prayers as Christians. Where does that come from? Spend 5 minutes with me - you may find something in common with the little church of Philadelphia in Revelation 3!

Music Today: Pete Townsend, 'Let My Love Open the Door'. While old Pete probably didn't have this mind, these lyrics would be a good fit for Jesus' encouragement to the fearful church of Philadelphia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxryzVVxFHI

Also: 'Light the Fire Again', Brian Doerkson.A praise song from the '80s, it's one of my favorites because it's one of the rarer contemporary songs that calls for personal repentance: 'Naked and poor, wretched and blind I come/ Clothe me in white, so I won't be ashamed.' This is based on Jesus' bracing call to the church in Laodecia.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0rthdHtf64

You and your (our!) church can believe exactly the right doctrine, but still be removed from Jesus' presence. Power and precision of doctrine, while important, mean nothing compared to this. Let's take five minutes together with Revelation 2:1-7.

Music today: "First", by Lauren Daigle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbWQV3OiRqA

"Lesson of Love" by Ashley ClevelandLess well known than Ms. Daigle, but a remarkable testimony of discovering the matchless beauty of love from God instead of the world.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spgU-Hif5QQ

Revelation is structured like an awesome roller coaster - but my old nesting dolls have an insightful word to add. Everything that comes after in the book comes out of who Jesus is NOW. Does your vision and relationship with Christ need an update?

Music Today - Josh Garrels, 'Revelator', from 'Love and War and the Sea In Between,' one of the finest albums of Christian music from the last 20 years.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73r1fP0Tvic

2020 has been a roller coaster without any safety rails. That makes it a great time to take a look at the book of Revelation, which intentionally puts us on a loop-de-loop to prepare Christians under pressure - and unbelievers on the fence - for the end of time. Join me for the start of the journey!

Music Today - "John the Revelator" My two favorite versions are the original by Son House here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHq0rKYKcn0
and a rocked-out version by Phil Keaggy here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tk40Ni1GUPc