1. The glorious throne in heaven (1-6a)

John looked up from his hardship in exile on Patmos and the sufferings of the churches as Jesus called him to the throne of God. John saw God's magnificent splendor like jewels, his authority over 24 thrones, and his dreadful power in lightning and thunder. Before God and in his midst were the lamps and spirits of the churches. In our daily struggles let's lift up our eyes to see this glorious One and his immovable, and glorious throne.

2. The unceasing worship of the eternal God (6b-11)

Four living creatures, sharing aspects of splendor from earthly creatures, proclaimed day and night the holiness of God. The elders fall down and worship him who lives forever and ever. All glory, honor and power are due him who is worthy as Creator. In Christ, we too may see and join this eternal worship today in spirit and truth (Jn 4:23).