Lent Season Mar 23

Going Beyond - Revelation
Carri Lynne Pratt

Good vs. Evil

Today's Reading: Revelation 12:1-6

"And the dragon stood in front of the woman who was about to give birth, so that when she did give birth he might devour her child."

Good and Evil are two very real forces in our world. Have you ever wondered how it got to be so bad? In today's reading John sees several visions. Three are past and one is future. The Woman with the 12 stars represents Israel and the 12 Tribes of Jacob. The birth is Jesus Christ. Then we are told about the event in which Satan was cast to earth and took 1/3 of the angels with him. This occurred at the beginning of our time.

This is a vision of the war between the dragon and Israel but it includes every person who has taken Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Satan is furious because he knows he has just a little while longer. Many people may say there is no such thing as Satan. This is not true. Jesus talks about him several times in the Bible.  Jesus also tells us the truth of the matter:

"The thief (Satan) comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the fullest." John 10:10 

The most exciting part of John's vision is seeing Jesus as our final King:

"A male (Jesus) who is going to shepherd all nations 

with an iron scepter" Rev 12:5 

Jesus is coming back as Lord of Lords and King of Kings and He will rule the earth with an iron scepter. Hallelujah! Good will eventually overcome Evil through our Savior. The only way to have a truly full life is through Jesus Christ. Believe in Him! Rely on Him! Accept Him as your Savior.

Reflection: Do I believe there is a being called Satan? What kind of harm might he bring to me? How can I be protected from Him?