Faithful on Fridays Blog

Water: Part Six

Whoever would’ve thought John, a fisherman, follower of Christ, and one of the ‘sons of thunder’ would receive a vision of the end times? Seems like an unlikely candidate, however his writing thunders throughout the Book of Revelation. This writing, the Apocalypse, is intended to give Christians hope and encouragement to continue living for Him. It begins with a description of Jesus, not as a humble servant, but a conquering King! It’s fascinating that John saw Jesus as the Son of Man, robed with a golden sash across His chest indicating He’s the Commander in Chief (Rev. 1:15b). 

This military look included His pure white head of hair, eyes flaming with fire, feet moving slowly like heavy bronze, and His voice like the ‘roar of many waters’. It reminds me of Niagara Falls where the earth trembles at the power of the water; that’s what the voice of the crucified and resurrected Christ sounds like, and as a good soldier it certainly gets your …. “Attention!” This roar shows us His strength, might, and energy to carry out His Father’s orders and usher in a new Kingdom of God for eternity. 

This upper story of John, using the roar of falling water to describe our eternal Warrior King also a mirrors the prophet Ezekiel,

Suddenly, the glory of the God of Israel appeared from the east. The sound of His coming was like the roar of rushing waters, and the whole landscape shone with His glory. Ezekiel 43:2 

When Jesus returns the sound will be loud and clear revealing His identity and all creation will respond. John continued,

For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their Shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Revelation 7:17 

Water not only symbolizes power, but a place of peace and fullness in Him. Jesus said it earlier in His ministry of the Spirit (John 4 and 7) giving us a full life on earth, but now it’s the living water for eternity, much better than Ponce de Leon’s search for the fountain of youth! 

… for He who has pity on them will lead them, and by springs of water will guide them.” Isaiah 49:10b

John’s vision reassures us that the prophet’s writings, now repeated in Revelation, is trustworthy so we have no need to fear when troubles come. The upper story of water, when you stop to envision it while reading Scripture, can bring encouragement in hard times, but you have to open up to the Spirit’s guidance.

A garden locked is My sister, My bride, a spring locked, a fountain sealed, a garden fountain, a well of living water, and flowing streams from Lebanon. Song of Solomon 4:12, 15 

Unlock the door of your heart to Jesus who is returning with a voice superseding the roar of Niagara Falls and yet still leading us to those quiet streams of hope for eternity.