From Sunday’s sermon: In spite of the fact that it was born during a time of great tragedy and despair, the Book of Revelation is noted for its sustained outbursts of exuberant joy and praise. The vision John presents is not despair, but joy… John, who should have been overwhelmed by the great sea of troubles that faced him and his beloved churches, responds by an overwhelming affirmation of the grace and triumph of God in Christ through songs of praise. The message: God has decisively entered the world and is busy reclaiming a lost world. God’s mission of reconciliation and restoration is placed in the hands of the church which is given the tools of God’s love and forgiveness and a passion for justice and peace – and that is cause for hope and praise!