Look Up

Look Up: What Does Jesus Say?

The church in Smyrna was under tremendous pressure. They were experiencing poverty,
opposition, slander, and persecution because of their faith in Jesus. Many had lost social
standing, financial security, and opportunities because they refused to compromise their
allegiance to Christ. What is striking is how Jesus begins His message.

He doesn’t start with solutions.
He doesn’t start with explanations.
He starts with presence.

“I know.” Those may be some of the most comforting words in the entire passage. Jesus wants suffering
people to know they are not invisible. He sees what they are carrying. He knows what they have
lost. He understands what they are enduring. Before He tells them what to do, He reminds
them that He is already with them.

Yet Jesus goes even further.
Instead of promising immediate relief, He tells them that more suffering is coming. That is not
the message most of us want to hear. We prefer stories where God immediately removes the
problem, heals the sickness, fixes the relationship, or opens the door. Sometimes He does. But
sometimes He walks with us through the fire rather than removing us from it.

The invitation Jesus gives Smyrna is simple:

Be faithful.
Not successful. Not comfortable. Not admired. Faithful.

Discussion

What do you learn about Jesus from the way He speaks to this suffering church?
Why do you think Jesus emphasizes faithfulness more than comfort or immediate relief?