Revelation 1: 13 "and in the middle of the lampstands I saw one like a son of man..."  John the Apostle was exiled on the island of Patmos.  He was isolated from the churches he dearly loved, those he had sought to encourage and strengthen.  He no longer was able to do so, other than to send them a letter.  The opening vision John shared was of his seeing the seven golden lampstands (the churches), and walking in the middle of them was none other than the Son of Man (vv. 11-12)!  That sight alone must have immediately filled John's heart with hope and comfort, because although he could not be there for the church, Jesus was there walking with, walking by, and in the midst of the churches.  No matter the condition of the churches in Asia Minor, and even the corrective measures that were coming for some of them, Jesus would not, has not, and will never abandon His Church!  Regardless of the tribulation and struggles they may face and have to endure, He will be there to bring them through because He is Faithful and True! 

In leading and serving the Lord there are times that we feel totally inadequate to do what God has called us to do, to go where God has called us to go, and be the servant that God has called us to be.  We are NOT alone!  The Son of Man is still walking among the lampstands today and in every age. In every challenging situation it is NOT on us to perform, but simply to obey Him, one step at a time.  He will build His church and the gates of Hades cannot stand against it (Mt. 16: 18).  He has the keys to open what others cannot open and lock what no one else can lock--Death and Hades (Rev. 1: 19).  Servant of God, look up and see that Christ is here and near and will not forsake us, but He is walking with us.  Be encouraged!

In Christ,
Tommy Middleton

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