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Read: Revelation 5 (use your own Bible or use the link above to access the in-App Bible).

‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slaughtered to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honour and glory and blessing!’ Revelation 5:12

Have you ever done an escape room? It is only once you crack the puzzles that you discover what is at the end. The sense of euphoria when you get through (and in the time limit) is exciting, especially when you get the photo to prove it!

The opening verses talk of a metaphorical scroll which will reveal God’s will and intention. However, it can only be opened after the death of the Lamb (Jesus). He is the only one who can open the scroll and break the seals. He is the only one who is worthy.

Standing in the centre of the throne (v.6), Jesus now comes centre stage, the one to be worshipped. He is worthy to be worshipped, because He has been slain / killed in our place, paid the price for our sins so we can have a relationship with God and through Him will come God’s kingdom on earth. That is quite an incredible list of reasons! A bit like an escape room (but so much better!) only once you have encountered God do you experience life in all its fullness and do we realise how amazing it is to worship the creator of the world. In this vision, John sees Jesus standing in the centre of the throne. Does this reflect where Jesus is in your life?

What is even more beautiful is to see how those worshipping Christ grow in number as we journey through this chapter (from living creatures and elders (v.8), to innumerable angels (v.11) to all of creation (v.13)). When we worship God with our whole lives, it shines through who we are and what we do. It points other people to esus with the hope that they too will get to know Him and all He has done for us.

This Advent, take some time to think about what is precious to you. What is the most important thing in your life? Is it God our creator and rescuer? If so, does that show through in all that we are and do?

“And the elders fell down and worshipped” (v.14). Are we joining in?

The Revd Jo Smith, Vicar of Euxton Parish.