as i looked, thrones were placed, and the Ancient of Days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames; its wheels were burning fire. a stream of fire issued and came out from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgment, and the books were opened. [daniel 7:9-10]
this scene of anticipation holds so much hope for believers in a dark world. when we cannot fully understand the tragedies around us, and when we cannot fully fathom the corruption of the human heart, we look to the end, and we find hope. God is so gracious to give us the ending.
as corruption builds, and as rulers and powers rise and fall, only to give way to other rulers and powers, we see God about to act. taking his seat on his judgment throne, he is about to show all the earth that his kingdom is supreme. that his reign is sovereign. that his rule will never end.
we see his character displayed. in his white clothes we see his absolute purity. in his white hair we see unsurpassed wisdom and eternality. in the fire we see his holiness, surrounding him and flowing out from him, an all consuming holiness that would destroy anything unholy which might venture to approach. we see his kingship and power and authority as we think about the vast sea of those surrounding his throne, loyal in heart and humble in service. and then we see his justice as the books are opened.
this is our future. a holy and just God who promises to right every wrong, destroy every evil, and reign in glorious joy over his people forever. are you living like this is your future? are you living as though he is reigning now?
Father, give us eyes to see as daniel did. give us eyes to see the world the way you do. help us not to find hope in the here and now, help us not to lose hope in the here and now. but show us hope in Jesus Christ alone, as we wait with all the saints to see him with our eyes, reigning in glory at the right hand of your fiery throne. come quickly Lord Jesus! amen!
~ arwen eastman