Burning Bright
- edenmunciepastor
- 4 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Encounter: Read slowly through the first three chapters of Revelation. Then watch the overview of the Revelation of Jesus Christ by the Bible Project:
This week, I had the unique opportunity to serve on a jury for a trial. Before the proceedings began, the judge took the time to educate us on the critical role of the judicial process and the immense value of our participation in ensuring a fair trial and justice for all parties involved.
The attorneys presented their cases, arguing for the defendant’s innocence or guilt. Afterward, we were instructed to deliberate on the evidence and reach a verdict.
During our deliberation, the judge entered the jury room and informed us that he had dismissed the case. I felt a sense of relief knowing that the process was over, and I could return to work. Had the trial continued, I had been leaning toward a "guilty" verdict.
As I got into my car to leave, I saw the defendant outside, free and smiling with his friends. I couldn't help but reflect on how different his demeanor might have been if the outcome had been different. This experience left me contemplating the power and responsibility that comes with being part of the judicial system. It also made me think about the Good News of Jesus Christ. The scripture I had been meditating on all week in Revelation called out to me: "All glory to him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by shedding his blood for us. He has made us a Kingdom of priests for God his Father. All glory and power to him forever!"
When John received his vision in Revelation 1–3, he didn’t see buildings, budgets, or ministries. He saw lampstands—symbols of churches meant to shine the light of Christ.A lampstand has one purpose: to hold a flame high. To share that because of Christ, the charges against us have been dropped, the case dismissed by the Judge.
Revelation’s message is not about fear or end-times mystery—it’s about Jesus tending the flame of His people. He walks among the lampstands, encouraging what burns bright and correcting what dims and constantly filling His lamp stands with fresh oil.This message echoes Zechariah 4: “Not by might… but by my Spirit.” It echoes Haggai 1–2: “Be strong… I am with you.” It echoes Psalm 65: God waters, nurtures, and sustains.
The writers of the Bible Project give this explanation as the big idea of Revelation:
Every human kingdom, like Babylon, eventually becomes corrupt and oppressive. We should resist evil kingdoms by loving people and trusting that Jesus will not let evil go unchecked. He will return to remove evil from the world and make all things new.
So what does it mean for us? It means our calling is simple and beautiful: Stay close to Jesus. Be continually filled with His Spirit. Love deeply. Witness boldly. Burn bright. In a world dimmed by anxiety, division, and despair, the church has never been more needed. Light shines best in darkness.
Burning Bright with You,
Pastor T
Reflect:
1. What stands out to you about Jesus “walking among the lampstands” in Revelation 1?
2. Which of the seven churches do you relate to most—and why?
3. What does it look like for a church to “burn bright” today?
Spiritual Practice:
Think about what life was like before Christ and the "charges" that were against you. Imagine yourself in a courtroom on trial for your guilt and imagine the Judge dismissing all charges. Now spend time writing a letter to the One who has delivered you, maybe this is your Thanksgiving.
Gather: Where do you see the Spirit at work in Eden right now? Where might Jesus be calling us to rekindle or rebuild (Haggai 1–2; Ezra 5)? How can we rely more on the Spirit and less on our own strength? What practical steps help keep your faith “fueled”? How can your group shine Christ’s light in a tangible way this month?