In Thunderous Applause
Key Verse to Read and Treasure
Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out “Hallelujah!” …Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, “Come, gather for the great supper of God. (Revelation 19:6, 17, ESV)
For Insight
The scene is of heaven and what John witnessed. After everything had been wrapped up. The things of earth have passed away. All of God’s children, people of faith are safe at home in heaven, no longer tormented, no longer sick or suffering any ailments of body, mind, or soul, no longer poor or homeless, struggling with any conditions, or within reach of Satan, or the devil, after all demons and fallen angels, and the wicked have been sentenced to their eternal suffering, Christ the Lamb of God stands at the head of the banquet table. John said there is thunderous rejoicing in by the great multitude, like the roar of many waters, something sounding like peals of thunder and an eruption of Amens! And then the moment comes when Jesus raises His glass, He gives the nod to all who have come through the tribulations of earth, and his promise that he will not partake of it again until He drinks it in heaven with us, (Matthew 26:29) is fulfilled.
In our churches—large or small—the earthly servants/shepherds/ministers of Christ lead us in the Lord’s Supper/Holy Communion/Eucharist. We’ve seen and participated in it hundreds, possibly thousands of times over our lifespan, but for this Holy Supper Jesus Christ is the host. He has always been at our tables in-with-and under the bread and wine or grape juice but on this occasion, he is visible for all to see. There is nothing separating us from him. What a lovely vision and beautiful Savior He will be for our longing eyes. What a wonderfully breathtaking moment it will be for all the saints.
Several years ago, we had the opportunity to attend a live performance of Handel’s Messiah. It was awesome, moving, memorable. At the conclusion, following the Hallelujah Chorus and a reverent silence there was an eruption of thunderous applause for the choir and conductor. They and she had given their all; poured themselves out for us. As moving and amazing as that was nothing on earth will compare to that we will participate in in heaven. So many things and times to look forward to in eternity, no wonder Paul often wrote be heavenly minded and think on these things. Today’s a good day to anticipate your heavenly life with a godly expectation and excitement.
Praying Revelation 19:6,17
Jesus, our Savior nothing on earth can compare to this moment in heaven and we want to be there with You and all the saints. Keep us walking the narrow road and don’t let us deviate from the way that is the truth. We want to praise You now and for all eternity. Amen.
Prayer Challenge
When the trials or doldrums of earthly life are too much to take think on what John wrote in Revelation so your heart can be lifted and your eyes focus upward with hope.
Digging Deeper