This week we read II and III John, and Jude before we begin the last book of the Bible, Revelation. The comments from last week on John's letters cover the first two days of reading this week.

Of all the books of the Bible, Jude may very well be the least read and least studied. In fact, this book does not even show up in our three year cycle of Bible readings, called the Lectionary. In other words, it is unlikely that you have ever heard a passage from Jude read in church, much less so, preached on; which is very sad, especially given the beautiful and poetic address in the opening verses: "To those who are called, who are beloved in God the Father and kept safe for Jesus Christ."  How lovely is that?!

And, then, here we are, in Revelation. When I was in High School, our youth group begged our youth director to lead a Bible study on Revelation. I still remember his response: "No, it is too frightening." Sadly, it took me until I was seminary student, to be brave enough to read from Revelation. How unfortunate to cast such a light on such an important book of the Bible!

The poetry of this book when it comes to heaven is AMAZING! We still don't have all the details, but we do get a little glimpse; a sliver of what it might be like. Take your time on Friday when you read Revelation 4. In fact, after you read it, take some time to imagine it or draw it. Gather some colorful pens and draw what is described. It is a powerful exercise.

Facebook Question

I cannot believe that, after this week, we will have just four days of reading left. Four. When we began there were 365 days and 66 books containing 1189 chapters ahead of us. And here we are nearly at the end of the journey -- for this year. What will you do in 2016? How will you keep the Word of God central in your life? Who will you invite to join you on the next leg of your journey? May God's Word continue to be a lamp to your feet and light to your path.