Friday 05 October 2007

Background

The book of Revelation belongs to apocalyptic literature;writing which unveils or reveals truths lying behind immediateappearances and events. John the Seer received this revelationtowards the end of the first century and shared his visions withseven of the churches in the Roman province of Asia. Seven beingthe number of completeness, John was in fact addressing all thechurches. 

The message to Laodicea is the final letter of the seven and is awarning against complacency. If the book wasn't written at a timeof actual persecution, the threat of it certainly hangs overeverything. The last thing you want to be during a time of trial islukewarm or complacent. 

Apparently, the church in Laodicea is affluent and comfortable:"For you say, 'I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing'".The 'truth' behind the appearance is that they are "wretched,pitiable, poor, blind and naked". The call is to repentance - toturn and see things as they really are. 

Like the writings of the prophets, apocalyptic literature cancomfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable. Whatever isrequired, Jesus stands at the door, knocking; waiting to be invitedin, to share in our journeys of discovery from appearances toreality, from falsehood to truth. 

Jesus will not force himself into our lives; he waits patiently tobe invited in, to sit and eat, to walk with us as companion andfriend.

To Ponder

How realistic is your own self-image - and thatof the church, community or culture of which you are a part? Thinkof one way you could seek another perspective, and try tolisten.

Do you feel you are 'lukewarm' about somecontemporary issue that should make you feel passionate? Find outmore about it, let yourself feel involved, and take an action.