Variety: Revelation 6v9–10
‘When he broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slaughtered for the word of God and for the testimony they had given; they cried out with a loud voice, “Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long…?”’ Revelation 6:9–10
Images of war, injustice and suffering in the world continue to horrify us. Have we forgotten the lessons of the past? How long, sovereign Lord?
Since the Fall, sin and evil have been part of the human condition. The author Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn wrote, ‘The line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either – but right through every human heart.’
Jesus inaugurated the kingdom of God here on earth, which we see now in part until he returns and everything is made new. The seven seals in Revelation chapters 6 and 8 give us a realistic picture of history between the first and second comings of Jesus.
The first seal reminds us that, despite appearances, God’s in control and has conquered sin. Knowing God wins in the end gives us confidence to play our part in his mission.
The second seal reminds us of the reality of conflict and war. Our response as Christians is to pray for God’s shalom to fill the earth, and to pray for – and be – peacemakers.
The third seal highlights the cruel nature of injustice and inequality. According to the UN, around 50 million people are trapped in modern slavery, with millions more displaced due to conflict. God calls his people to be mouthpieces for justice, standing up for all who are victims of injustice, whether in our workplaces or in forced labour.
The fourth seal speaks of sickness and death through war and famine. Death is an evil interruption in this world, bringing grief and separation, into which we minister God’s grace and love.
The fifth seal speaks of those who suffer and die for their faith. Open Doors reports that 5,000 Christians were killed in the past year due to their faith. Although we’re to expect suffering and persecution, it will not have the final word – we pray for patient endurance and courage for the persecuted church.
The final two seals depict the Day of the Lord (when Christ returns) and the completion of God’s judgement.
These words remind us not to be surprised by the brokenness we experience as we live between Christ’s first and second coming. Like the martyrs, we cry out, ‘Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long?’, praying and waiting in hope for Christ’s return. This week, when you witness evil, suffering, or injustice, pray for God’s kingdom to come – and work towards it. Remember: God is sovereign and will be victorious.
David Walker, London Institute of Contemporary Christianity