Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection. Over these the second death has no authority, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.

— Revelation 20:6

20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope

21 that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God.

23 And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.

24 For in hope we were saved, but hope that is seen is not hope, for who hopes for what he already sees?

25 But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we eagerly wait for it.

— Romans 8:20-21; 23-25

And to Him was given dominion, glory, and a kingdom, That all the peoples, nations, and men of every tongue Might serve Him.
His dominion is an everlasting dominion Which will not be taken away; And His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed.

— Daniel 7:14

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and love from Christ to you.

Our world languishes in pain, awaiting something better. Sin’s costly toll of death and suffering infiltrates this fallen world. Dashed dreams,thwarted plans, and broken relationships commonly tarnish any fleeting sense of happiness. Even creation groans under sin’s weight. God’s enemy, Satan, holds the world and its inhabitants in bondage. But there is good news.
The Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, unshackles those who believe in Him from the enemy’s grip and control. Gods people and all creation yearn for God’s restoration and the judgment due His enemies. When Jesus returns, every believer will live in His visible, powerful presence.

Revelation 20 describes Satan’s imprisonment, the thousand-year reign of Jesus Christ, and Satan’s final defeat. Jesus Christ will triumph, He will reign as King and exalt His people at his side. Satan experiences apparent victory now, but his deceit will end as he suffers God’s judgment for all eternity. Jesus controls history’s consummation and will reign forever as victor and King. God’s certain victory provides hope and perspective to believers facing pain and struggles in this life. Hallelujah! God wins.