Wednesday 23 July 2008

Background

Apocalyptic writing (literally meaning 'unveiling') was verycommon around the time of Jesus. They are strange writings, thebook of Revelation being the only example in the New Testament.They were often written in periods of stress to encourage people topersevere in faith and good works - the common message being thatafter tribulation, the faith of the saints will be rewarded.

As we become used to the fantastical literature of The Lord of theRings and Harry Potter, the extreme and bizarre images becomealmost familiar to us. We could spend hours trying to unpick thecodes and understand the symbolism, but that seems to me to beunnecessary.

I have often used the above verse in funeral services. It is anexpression of faith and hope. An encouragement to place thedeparted loved one into God's hands, rejoicing and giving thanksfor their life - the reward offered by a God of grace to those Godloves. I'm sure that faithful followers have been comfortedthroughout the ages by such words.

For Christians, the blood of Christ is closely associated withwine shared in Holy Communion. Here the crushing of the grapes isnot seen as life enhancing, as in the Lord's Supper, but as anexpression of God's anger in judgement.

To Ponder

When you read this passage what overallimpression do you take from it?

How well are you able to balance God's anger injudgement with God's mercy in Christ?

If you are familiar with them, how much of afamily resemblance can you see here with Tolkien's work and that ofJ K Rowling?