I have the keys of Death & Hades

Revelation 1:9-20     Joel Keller

This is an excerpt from my journal earlier in the week.  I try to make my daily journaling a time with God, not about Him.  Thus, it's written to Him, not about Him.

In verses 17 & 18 You cut to the chase.  You are the Eternal One.  You died, but are alive forevermore.  And, by the way, You hold the keys of Death & Hades.  This is what sets You apart from the other prophets / other religions.  For me, to know that my eternity is settled, allows me to live my life in freedom - without fear having a stranglehold on me.  That truth focuses me on eternal things, not on things here on earth (Col. 3:1,2).  

I am so excited about the Book of Revelation & how its truths will impact us as a body. This puts life in perspective for me - knowing my earthly life is a vapor, a handbreadth. You have blazed the path for us, Lord Jesus.  You have gone through death & come out smelling like a Rose (Song of Songs 2:1).  Our "natural" response to death is pre-empted by Your declarations: "Fear not!"  You are so kind, Daddy; You know us inside & out.  You know each hair on my head, even the few remaining dark ones.  So, I come back to the beginning - You are the Eternal One.  My hope is in You.  The cards have been dealt; I'm "all in" with You, Lord Jesus.  You hold the keys to life & death ... and everything in between.  You are Emmanuel, God with us.  And I am forever grateful.