Revelation is difficult to understand. We can be sure that it is not about the end of the world, but was written as a sign of hope to those long ago who were experiencing terrible persecution. After all of the violent and frightening imagery of the book, the end is a vision of beauty and peace. That is the message - God intends healing, new life, and happiness for us. God wants to commune with us 'face to face', by that meaning no sense of distance or separation. In our own age of fear and insecurity, we need to remember that our God is not to be feared but loved.

The first generations of Christians believed that Jesus was returning soon, and that the world as they knew it would be totally changed. They were certain that it would happen suddenly, taking everyone by surprise. It was important to be ready at every moment and not be morally and spiritually lax. So much time has passed since then that we no longer expect a sudden end. It is still important, however, to be spiritually aware and alert to God's presence. It is so easy to be busy about many things, caught up with the worries and details of everyday life. So many things can come to an end suddenly in wars and natural disasters. Our most precious possession is what kind of person we are. Are we loving and generous? Do we encourage others? Is God truly important for us? It is not about being perfect, but having our heart in the right place everyday. Let us be ready to speak face to face with God always.