What is at Hand?

Revelation 1:17-18—When I saw him, I fell at his feet as if I were dead. But he laid his right hand on me and said, “Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last. I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave.

How many times have we as humans feared the end? The end of a good thing? The end of a season? The end of a life? The end of the world? 

There’s no doubt Christians of most generations since the early church had thoughts, ideas, and concerns about the “end of times.” 

But for John, a political prisoner, in his intense Revelation from the King, we are given much to think about regarding the end. The good news for you and me is that the Revelation is not of doom and gloom, but more so of the King who sits on the only true throne forever. 

He is not unsure, worried, or on the brink of overthrow. 

Quite the opposite. We can be 100% confident that Jesus is King now and always. 

His kingdom is not far off. Jesus demonstrated and stated plainly that His kingdom is most assuredly “at hand.” 

Take a second and look at your hand. How hard was it to find? How long did it take you to place it? How easy is it for you to interact with that hand? 

So, too, is God’s Kingdom—and this kingdom is not like the kingdoms of men, easily manipulated, overthrown, undermined, insecure, and misdirected. This “at hand” kingdom we inherit is secure. Holy. Righteous. Just. Redemptive. Good. 

Discovery of the Kingdom of God will cause you to shout, clap, and sing! You might even do a little dance at the revelation of the Kingdom of God. It’s that good!

Our Father has given Jesus—our creator, redeemer, and sustainer—the place of highest honor in all creation. He is now and will be forevermore the One who rules and reigns on God’s throne, in God’s kingdom. This is not only a reality for eternity; it is at hand for us today.

We need not fear the end, for our king takes that which looks like death and transforms it into vibrant life. What kingdom are you most aware of? If it’s not the King of all Kings, just ask Him to shift your focus. 

Take a minute to talk with Jesus.

Jesus, what am I afraid of? 

What “ends” or “deaths” am I afraid will sting? 

Jesus, what is the truth? 

Jesus, what is your Kingdom’s perspective?

As your beloved child, what do You want me to know from your heart, Father?

Thank you, mighty Prince of Peace and King of Kings!