In January we began a year-long journey through the Bible with Genesis, and today and next Sunday we end with readings from Revelation.  Today’s reading comes from the first chapter where the visionary, John, reports on his encounter with the risen Jesus.  The book of Revelation is and has been controversial through the millenia with some people citing it to predict the coming of the apocalypse as a punishment.  It helps to know some of the historical setting, and it was a time when the Roman empire had Judah, both Jews and Christians, under its control.  These visions helped the occupied peoples know that God was still in control.  But how does that relate to us?  As the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, it is assurance that no matter the current circumstance, God is in control, and, as we say in our Affirmation of Faith, “We are not alone.”  It also helps to know that much of God’s work needs to come through our own actions of love and justice.   (NOTE: Reflecting the importance of the Word, the video begins with the scripture, but once it starts you can scroll back to the beginning of the service if you want.  The entire service is videoed.)