Read: Revelation 2:1; Matthew 18:18-20
For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. (Matt. 18:20)
The Lord Jesus dictated seven letters to John for distribution among the churches of Asia Minor. Each letter is addressed to the “angel” of the church. Since angellos in Greek means “messenger,” it could be that the addressee is the pastor of the church rather than a literal angel. Regardless, the Lord’s words are intended for the whole congregation. All seven letters follow the same outline: first, an opening statement where the recipients and the sender are identified. In each letter, the glorified Jesus has a message for the church—exhortation plus praise and/or criticism. And finally, the letter concludes with a warning (“Listen to what the Spirit is saying!”) and a promise to those who “conquer” by standing firm in faith.
Jesus is standing among seven golden lampstands, and gripping the seven stars in his right hand. The symbolism of Revelation often is difficult to decipher, but not here. Jesus himself explains the meaning: “the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches” (Rev. 1:20). Jesus is present in each of his churches and with each of his ministers. Of all places, this is where he chooses to be! In the sanctuary during worship, in the fellowship hall over coffee, in the Sunday school class, in the nursery with the little ones, in the pastor’s study—the Lord is there, unseen but alive; hearing, seeing, caring, holding.
As you pray, pray for your church and your pastor.
About the Author
Rev. David Bast
David Bast is a writer and pastor who served for 23 years as the President and Broadcast Minister for Words of Hope. In his more than 40 years of devotional writing and preaching, he has been encouraging believers around the world to be shaped by God and his Word.
Prior to his ministry and work at Words of Hope, Dave served as a pastor for 18 years in congregations in the Reformed Church in America. A graduate of Hope College and Western Theological Seminary, he is the author of nine devotional books and Bible studies, includingWhy Doesn't God Act More Like God,Christ in the Psalms, andA Gospel for the World.
Dave and his wife, Betty Jo, have four children and eight grandchildren. Dave enjoys reading, growing tomatoes, and avidly follows the Detroit Tigers.
