Exiled to the island of Patmos, off the west coast of the Turkish peninsula, John had a vision of Jesus. The appearance of this vision was so astonishing (Revelation 1:12-16) that it made John fall at Jesus’ feet as though dead (1:17). Jesus told him not to be afraid, and said, “I am the first and the last, and the living one. I was dead, and see, I am alive forever and ever” (1:17-18)

Then Jesus dictated seven letters, to the leaders of seven churches in the general vicinity of Ephesus. These letters all follow a common four-part pattern. First, in each letter Jesus identifies himself with a particular characteristic: “These are the words of the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire” (2:18), for example, or “These are the words of the first and last, who was dead and came to life” (2:8). Second, Jesus specifies something about each church: “I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance” (2:2), or “I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name” (3:8).

Third, Jesus offers a serious warning. “I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first” (2:4), for example, or “Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is on the point of death” (3:2). And fourth, Jesus urges them to hear what the Spirit is saying, and promises a reward for faithfulness: “To everyone who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna” (2:17), or “To the one who conquers I will give a place with me on my throne, just as I myself conquered and sat down with the Father on his throne (3:22).

It is a useful spiritual exercise to consider what Jesus would write in a letter to you. After you’ve read today’s chapters, take a few moments and write down (1) how you imagine Jesus would identify himself to you; (2) what it is about you that Jesus might comment favorably about; (3) one thing Jesus would warn you about; and (4) a reward that Jesus might offer you. You might find yourself surprised, and moved, by what comes out in a brief letter like this.

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You are the one who lives, O Lord, conquering death, and inviting us to come along with you in your victory. Yet we are often afraid, often overwhelmed, often lukewarm. Help us to hear what the Spirit is saying to us, that we may rekindle our first love, and follow you in gladness forever.