As we wrap up our week on God's heart to meet with man,

today we'll look at the encouraging story of John on the island of Patmos.

Right when we think we're unusable, a season is too dry or we're past our prime,

God comes and speaks fresh life and vision.

If you find yourself like John on Patmos today,

I pray God brings a new word of courage and life to you

despite your season.

Welcome to the First 15 podcast. Our scripture for today comes from Revelation 1, verse 17 through 19.

Scripture says,

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead.

But he laid his right hand on me, saying, fear not. I am the first and the last, and the living one.

I died and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and Hades.

Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this.

The story of John receiving the book of Revelation from Jesus brings tears to my eyes.

I imagine an isolated, weary, and lonely John on Patmos, spending his days waiting until he gets to be with his beloved Jesus again.

I imagine his heart yearning just to see his friend and Savior.

And suddenly, after years of serving Jesus, he appears to John once again,

is Lord and King standing before him, speaking to him that which will be the final words of Scripture.

In Revelation 1, verses 12 through 20, John records Jesus coming to meet with him saying,

Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me.

And on turning, I saw seven golden lampstands.

And in the midst of the lampstands, one like a son of man,

...