Endurance

Today's reading: Revelation 14

Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and hold fast to the faith of Jesus. Revelation 14:12 NRSV

In high school I learned to identify and articulate the main thesis of stories, poems and novels. Verse 12 of chapter Fourteen gives us the main thesis of the book of Revelation. Revelation is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and hold fast to the faith of Jesus.

The entire book of Revelation is for those who believe and are hanging on to the faith by their fingernails. It is a letter to encourage the saints (all who believe in and follow Christ) to continue what on their path to salvation. Despite all that is happening around them, the saints are exhorted to endure.

I don't know about you, but I don't see myself as having to endure in my faith. Perhaps I face a challenge or two occasionally. But rarely have a seen a time to simply endure. Even with the wayward morals of our Western society I don't see many opportunities for Christians to endure. Persevere, perhaps, but not to endure. Endure sounds like trying to live through torture or on the brink of death. Maybe that is why John received this vision. And maybe why I (perhaps you too) have such a hard time with it's message.

God, you have called us saints to endure since Jesus' ascension. Yet, we find ourselves in a place and time where endurance is not called for. What does this mean, Lord? How are we to act according to your will in the here and now? Guide us, we ask of you, God. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims