Fearful tears

So I wept much, because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll. — Revelation 5:4                                                 

John, the great apostle and the one Jesus loved, was reduced to tears.

In a vision he received while imprisoned (Rev. 5:1-12) he found himself in God’s throne room as future events unfolded. In heaven, John saw God hold up a sealed scroll. He wept because as he observed the glories of God’s presence, he saw no one who could open the scroll — no one with the power to reveal God’s final revelation and to complete the concluding chapter of history’s drama.

As an apostle, John had observed the power of sin in the world. He had witnessed Jesus’ life and death on earth to conquer sin. He had seen Him ascend into heaven. But now he was fearful when he saw that no one was worthy to open the scroll and vanquish sin forever (v.4).

Imagine the drama of what happened next. An elder approached John and said, “Do not weep,” and pointed him toward Someone he knew: “Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah” (v.5). John looked, and he saw Jesus — the only One with the power to take the scroll, open the seals, and complete the story. Soon John’s tears were dry, and millions of angels were proclaiming, “Worthy is the Lamb!” (v.12).

Are you crying? Behold, John’s friend — Jesus. He is worthy. Turn things over to Him. — Dave Branon

Our Lord is worthy all our days

Of all our love and highest praise;

He died to take our sin and shame — Oh, bless the Savior’s holy name! — Egner

READ:Revelation 5:1-12

The Lamb who died to save us

is the Shepherd who lives to lead us.

The Bible in one year:

• Numbers 34-36; Mark 9:30-50