Protected
He said to me, ‘These are the people who have come safely through the terrible persecution. They have washed their robes and made them white with the blood of the Lamb. That is why they stand before God’s throne and serve him day and night in his temple. He who sits on the throne will protect them with his presence. Never again will they hunger or thirst; neither sun nor any scorching heat will burn them, because the Lamb, who is in the centre of the throne, will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’ (verses 14b-17)
Read Revelation 7:9-17
The 1988 Sydney to Hobart yacht race became a frightening ordeal for many of the crews that took part. In the terrible storm yachts capsized, were demasted and were holed. There were mayday calls. Sailors, winched from their stricken vessels by helicopter, were brought in for medical treatment. They were exhausted and in shock. Some were injured. Some were grieving for colleagues who had died.
God is here to bring us safely through the terrible ordeals that we experience in our life. His search and rescue work is carried out by the Lamb, his son Jesus Christ. We are brought to safety by the cross of Christ. God is with us to protect us from all the frightening things that threaten us. Jesus is here with his comfort and care, providing for our needs.
Let’s look to God and the Lamb, Jesus, to bring us safely through the ordeals of life. God will give us the protection and care that we need.
Lord Jesus, protect me from harm, guide me to the springs of your life-giving water, and wipe away my tears. Amen
Adapted by Pastor Richard Fox, Director of Lutheran Media, from a devotion written by John Pfitzner in the LCA Devotion book “Guidance for each day” (LCA Openbook, 2002)
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