The Lord's Right Hand (#18 of 365+)

The Book of Revelation was written by John, one of the closest friends Jesus Christ had during his earthly ministry. When I did some research about the author I found some facts that were both
serious and funny at the same time. Let me explain:

John was the son of Zebedee the fisherman. John and his older brother James had been business partners with another fisherman named Simon before they all became disciples. From the start, Jesus Christ renamed Simon Peter (meaning "Rock") and he gave James and John the nickname "Sons of Thunder". For the next three years Peter, James, and John were the inner circle of disciples. Jesus kept these guys close and showed them things he didn't show the others. But this doesn't mean they had great spiritual insight or deserved preferential treatment. Sometimes Jesus had to give the three stooges a tongue-lashing. Jesus once said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan!" (Matthew 16:23, Mark 8:33). Another time, Jesus rebuked the “Sons of Thunder” for asking permission to rough up some folks who weren’t cooperating with his mission (Luke 9:54, Mark 3:17). Keeping in mind the culture of the middle east and the way Jesus had zealously cleansed the temple (John 2:15), I wouldn’t be surprised if these stubborn fishermen received an occasional slap on the face during their frequent chew-out sessions! (That's the part I thought was funny)...

By the time John received the revelation he was an old man. He was exiled to the Isle of Patmos after being martyred. Yes, he was martyred by being boiled in a cauldron of hot oil and he miraculously survived it! According to historical records, all of Jesus' disciples who witnessed his resurrection were martyred for their testimony. Every one of those guys, inner circle or not, became fearless and loyal friends to the end because of what they had seen with their own eyes and they wanted the whole world to know about it.

So it was significant indeed when this rowdy-fisherman-turned-bold-witness practically fainted at the sight of Jesus, the Logos, the Word of God. "In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: 'Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.'" (Revelation 1:16-17)

In today’s devotional, Joni noticed the importance of two things Jesus did with his right hand. First, he held seven stars which represent the angels of the seven churches. This demonstrates that he is supreme ruler of the universe. Second, without releasing his hold on those seven stars, Jesus uses that same right hand to reassure his friend John.

Lord, as Joni prayed, I also thank you for this beautiful picture of your majesty and your tenderness. Amen.