First and Last Word (Revelation)

"I am the Alpha and Omega", says the Lord God, "who is, and who was and who is to come, the Almighty." (Revelation 1:8)

I'm cheating; a few weeks ago I got behind with my NT in 90 readings and in the Christmas hustle I havebeen unable (unwilling?) to catch up.  So today - New Years Day - I read all of Revelation to finish the 'challenge'.  Reading John's apocalyptic vision is mind-stretching and faith building all at the same time.  Here are just a few observations.

• John's vision encourages the saints to endure, to persevere in the face of opposition and ridicule and even death.  Am I so determined?
• Before heaven meets earth again there will be trials and tribulations - birth pangs. There will be, and has been cosmic pain.  The exact nature of that suffering is unclear given the deeply symbolic nature of the content John's dream.
• The End will be a glorious feast and a universe wide celebration.  This is one party invitation not to be missed!
• Finally, and most appropriately, Jesus is God's first and last word to us.  He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end.  Through him, by him and for him all things were made.  Through him, by him and for him all things will be made new again!  The witness of all the New Testament, and it can be argued the whole bible itself is to point to the One who is God's full and complete salvific action for the world.  I want to give the rest f my life to lifting up his Name and anticipating his return.  Come Lord Jesus, Come!