What have we seen and heard so far in the book of Revelation? We encountered the seven seals and the first four trumpets. The breaking of the first seal is very significant because the gospel will ultimately emerge victorious in the end times. However, this is followed by warning judgments. Through the subsequent seals, we learn of war, famine, death, a cry from martyrs in heaven, and a cosmic upheaval (Revelation 6-8:1). With the first four trumpets, we see how a third of the natural order—earth, sea, fresh water, and sky—was affected (Revelation 8:6-12). Much more will follow in the subsequent chapters.
The course of this world, whether in nature, politics, or culture, can be confusing and raise questions. We received devastating and tragic news a few days ago: Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck and died. His death hits closer to home than many others. This is a cold-blooded murder on American soil of a voice many of us, especially our youth, connect with. Charlie Kirk gave hope and inspired millions as he fearlessly stood up, pointed to Christ, and defended Christian conservative values. In a confusing and increasingly hostile world and a divided, troubled country, he gave a loud public voice to many of our thoughts. Charlie's death profoundly affects many of us. Can we still be witnesses of Christ and raise our voice?
We truly live in confusing and troubling times. Political violence has become more common, and the US is deeply divided. On top of that, we face many global issues. There are severe armed conflicts with a high risk of escalation. Geopolitical rivalries are growing. We also hear about economic instability and extreme weather events.
Let us be thankful that the Lord gave us the book of Revelation. It lifts us up, like an eagle soaring high into the sky, allowing us to see from a bird's eye view what is happening. The first thing we learn is God’s sovereignty over history; events unfold in a set order, not randomly. What a comfort! We also learn that God exercises restraint. He is patient with this rebellious world. His word still goes out, and the church continues to grow. The number is not yet complete.
We confess this with the Heidelberg Catechism, Lord’s Day 10, that all things are in God’s hands. Things are not out of control. We agree with Lord’s Day 10, that "all creatures are so in His hand, that without His will they cannot so much as move.” As we heard last Sunday, “without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head.” When we know that we belong to Christ and He is our Savior, we also understand God’s providence.
Furthermore, let us remain steadfast. Do not let fear and anxiety control our lives. Let us run with endurance the race that has been set before us (Hebrews 12:1-2). Above all, let us keep our focus on the Captain of our salvation (Hebrews 2:10). The crown is reserved for those who, by grace, endure to the end. Let us pray constantly for that grace to fill our minds and hearts. The world may seize our possessions, our freedom, even our lives, but it cannot take Christ from us, nor us from Him. Let us pursue Christ and abide in Him. Let Him be our hope. He is coming!