Day 366: Malachi 2-4; Revelation 22

"But who can endure the day of his coming? And who will be able to stand when he appears?" (Malachi 3:2a, CSB).

Today the Day of the Lord is nearer than it has ever been. The fitting conclusion of Malachi prophesies the coming of Jesus first and last. The Revelation focuses on the last. The black and white truth is laid out. There will be those who dread His appearing for their judgment will be ultimate and final...eternally. On the other hand, there are those who cry out: "Maranatha! Even so, come Lord Jesus!" Who are these? They live out what they know to be right and true, following God's Word with God's help (Malachi 4:4-6a), or as the Revelation's last beatitude states: "Blessed are those who have washed their robes..." (Revelation 22:14). There are manuscript readings that add "who keep His commands." God's Word is always consistent with itself. These are the ones who not only endure His coming, but anticipate it. Come, Jesus-followers, Jesus-sanctuaries, let us live fully in Him that when He appears we will be fully at Home with Him! Maranatha!

Congratulations to all of you who have read through the Bible again (or for the first time) this year! I am proud of you! What have you experienced and learned? I am eager to hear from you. I have another challenge, too: do it again (or for the first time)! You will not regret it!