July 19, 2023: The Call To Love Jesus!

"The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John" (Revelation 1:1, ESV)

The primary message to the seven churches in Revelation 2 and 3 is the call to Love God with all our hearts. The Book of Revelation gets its name because it is a revelation of Jesus' heart to His people. The majesty of Jesus is overwhelming to John the Apostle! He writes thirty descriptions of Jesus and twenty-two rewards which are found in the first three chapters alone.  
    
The revelation of Jesus and revealing of the rewards to those who overcome equips the church to shine, endure, and be encouraged despite the challenges of the time. They cause the church to cry out, "Come, Lord Jesus!" As we meditate on the majesty of Jesus, like young lovers, we long to be with Him.  
    
Jesus corrected the church of Ephesus for neglecting to love Him. Sardis had a reputation for its dedication to Jesus but had become spiritually dead. Laodicea was required to repent of their lukewarmness to Christ. Thyatira and Pergamos were also rebuked for their adulterous ways toward Christ.
    
Clearly, the letters to the churches of Revelation were written to them out of God's mercy, calling them to return to Jesus wholeheartedly. How tender is your heart towards Christ! Does anything stand in the way of His love?