Covid’s Apocalypse

“Worthy are you (Jesus) to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:9-10 (ESV)

Among other things, the Covid pandemic has reminded us that normal may not always remain so. Moreover, we cannot order circumstances for our lives and we may not even be completely prepared for what happens in the future. For example, at no time in my 40-year banking and financial career did I ever discuss or plan for a “shut down” economy.

Fortunately, we may being seeing positive impact from new vaccinations within months. Despite this hope, recently we learned that close friends have been stricken with Covid and some have died. Others have suffered greatly from the economic lockdown which promises to inflict long-term damage on families and cities.

In Revelation, the last book of the Bible, we are confronted by the Apostle John’s apocalyptic prophecy and descriptions. One is tempted to relate these expected tribulations of end-times judgement to current events. This is risky to do since none of us can ever know precisely when Jesus will return and the details of these extraordinary and hoped for events.

Often missed in the study of Revelation are the extraordinary statements and worshipful exclamations made in it. One example is Revelation 5:10 (above) where we learn that Jesus’ followers are being “made” into “a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth.” Yes, despite the trouble and trials past, present and to come, we are a sovereign kingdom with a leader, power and purpose.

Let us be encouraged by this truth and reality despite the presence of Covid and other challenges in this world.

Blessings,
Jim