Forgiveness is real and available to us. In today’s Revelation reading we see those who have previously sinned now welcomed in to praise God. They’re welcomed because they’ve repented and been forgiven. Our sins don’t have to define us or define our outcome. Our job is to repent. God is faithful to forgive.

Micah 5:1-7:20:

• 1-5 – This establishes that the Messiah will come from Bethlehem and will bring peace.
• 6-8 – Here God makes it clear what he’s asking of his people. He’s asking them to seek justice and offer love and kindness. He is not interested in empty sacrifices.
• 9-16 – Here God explains the punishment that is to come for those who have not obeyed him.

Revelation 7:1-17:

• 1-8 – The angels assure that the faithful people of the earth are protected before the destruction begins.
• 13-17 – Here a series of people who have sinned, repented, and been forgiven are welcomed in to praise God.

Psalm 135:1-21:

• 1-12 – These verses recount a number of examples of God’s power, greatness, and faithfulness. Like in most of these accounts, the parting of the Red Sea is mentioned.
• 15-18 – Once again, the worship of idols is proven to be worthless.

Proverbs 30:5-6:

• 5-6 – God’s words are good, true, and helpful. We tend to want to change them up to better suit us, but this is wrong.