The Book of Revelation promises a special blessing for those who take the time to peer into the future with the apostle John (1:3). If they do, they will see that God wins, Christ triumphs. Righteousness prevails. Satan loses. Sorrow, sickness, and death all disappear. A new heaven and a new earth emerge from the ashes of the old. And God Himself will wipe away the tears from every eye.

Regardless of what happens in this life - no matter how depressing the world news or how difficult or dark the season we might be enduring - life in Christ has a very happy ending...and nothing in earth, heaven, or hell can ever take that away. When the heartache of this present world weighs heavily on us, we have only to look up and ahead at the radiant end of one story and the joyous beginning of a new story that will never end. An eternal story with one central theme: "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain!" (5:12). 

Revelation 1:1 

"The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John,"

Revelation 1:1

This verse introduces the Book of Revelation, emphasizing the divine origin and purpose of the message. Here’s how renewal is reflected in this passage:

Divine Revelation

Source of Renewal: The book is described as a revelation from Jesus Christ. This divine disclosure is a source of renewal for believers, providing them with hope, encouragement, and a renewed understanding of God's plan for the future.

Engaging with this revelation can renew faith and confidence in God's sovereignty and His ultimate victory.

God’s Communication

Renewal Through Understanding: The revelation is intended to show God's servants "what must soon take place." This insight into future events renews the believers' perspective, reminding them that God is in control and has a plan for the world.

Understanding God's plan helps believers renew their commitment to living faithfully, knowing that their efforts are part of a larger divine purpose.

Angelic Mediation

Symbol of Renewal: The message is conveyed through an angel to John, symbolizing a divine bridge between heaven and earth. This mediation renews the connection between God and humanity, assuring believers that they are not alone and that God's guidance is always accessible.

Recognizing the continuous interaction between the divine and the earthly realm can renew believers' sense of spiritual support and presence.

Renewed Purpose for John

Renewal of Mission: John, the recipient of the revelation, is given a renewed purpose to convey this message to others. This calling reinvigorates his mission as a servant of God.

Like John, believers can find renewal in embracing the roles and missions God has assigned to them, knowing they are part of His divine plan.

Urgency of the Message

Timely Renewal: The phrase "what must soon take place" underscores the immediacy and urgency of the revelation. This sense of urgency can renew believers' dedication to living in readiness for Christ's return.

By focusing on the urgency of the message, believers are encouraged to renew their commitment to spiritual vigilance and righteous living.

Revelation 1:1 highlights the concept of renewal through divine revelation, understanding God’s plan, angelic mediation, renewed purpose, and the urgency of this message. Engaging with these themes helps believers experience spiritual renewal, reinforcing their faith and to God's unfolding plan.

Stay strong and be blessed. God's love is a longing heart.