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Monday December 29 - “I know” “I know where you live...” Revelation 2:13
Depending upon the context and the tone of voice, the declaration that “I know where you live” can be taken as a threat. You can imagine a gangster intimidating a potential victim by saying this. However, when Jesus said this to a Christian congregation in Pergamum it becomes clear that these words are designed to show care, sympathy and understanding.
This phrase reminds me of that wonderful psalm which speaks of the Lord’s thorough and intimate knowledge of each one of us: Psalm 139. It is worth reading this psalm and then listening to Bernadette Farrell’s hymn: ‘O God, you search me and you know me.’ These words in Revelation 2, Psalm 139 and the hymn are there to encourage us: Jesus knows us completely.
In a day when we value our privacy and secrecy, there is one who knows all about us and loves us dearly. This type of loving care should draw us like a magnet and not repel us into reclusive privacy. “I know where you live” says Jesus, because he is familiar with all we face: all our sorrows and joys and the circumstances we encounter on a daily basis.
Lord Jesus, ever-present saviour and friend – please watch over me with care and loving compassion throughout this day and bring me to its conclusion in peace and safety, wholly delighting in you. Amen.
Tuesday December 30 - Satan’s throne
“I know where you live – where Satan has his throne.” Revelation 2:13
We often lament the way some ruling authorities around the world make it difficult for Christians to worship and proclaim their faith in Jesus without harassment or persecution. Even in the UK we find laws being passed which betray our Christian heritage, and even street preachers can be arrested. This is not new. Throughout the Roman empire there were periods when Christians were bullied, beaten, persecuted and martyred for faithfully following Jesus. It seems that in Pergamum the civil authorities were so compromised and anti-God that Jesus could speak of Satan having a ‘throne’ in that city.
Jesus had warned his followers to expect such diabolical opposition (John 15:18) and here in Revelation Jesus assures the Christians that they are not forgotten: he knows their awful situation. Jesus’ comfort, presence and reassurance are made clear to them and to us. Sometimes the diabolical opposition presents itself in a seemingly benign manner, and at other times it is intimidating and cruel, but Jesus made it clear that those who are not for him are against him (Luke 11:23). Pray for those who are persecuted for the gospel and those who are persecuting. Jesus knows the circumstances we all face. Ultimately, his throne will prevail.
Lord Jesus, at the cross you secured victory over Satan. As he continues to flail around and cause your people pain, please strengthen us to be victorious in your name. Amen.
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PRAYER FOR TODAY
PRAYER FOR TODAY