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Dear Church at Litchfield Park family,

Today, we come together to explore the message found in Revelation 3:7-13 (NIV), which was written to the church in Philadelphia. Though it may seem distant in time and place, this message holds timeless truths and powerful encouragement for us today.

"To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write:

These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens, no one can shut; and what he shuts, no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name. Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

This message to the church in Philadelphia carries significant meaning for us today as followers of Christ.

Here are some questions to guide contemplation:

  • The open door mentioned in this passage signifies opportunities and divine favor. How can we recognize and embrace the open doors that God places before us? How can we step out in faith, even when we feel inadequate?
  • Jesus promises to protect the church in Philadelphia from the hour of trial that will come upon the world. What comfort can we draw from this assurance? How can we trust in God's faithfulness and find refuge in Him during times of difficulty?
  • The victorious ones in Philadelphia are promised to become pillars in the temple of God, bearing the names of God, the new Jerusalem, and Jesus' new name. What significance do these promises hold? How can we strive for spiritual victory and live with a lasting impact for the Kingdom of God?
  • How can the message to the church in Philadelphia be applied to our lives and our church community? What steps can we take to embrace the faithfulness, endurance, and love demonstrated by the church in Philadelphia?

As we reflect on these questions, let us invite the Holy Spirit to guide our hearts and minds. May we be encouraged by the example of the church in Philadelphia, their unwavering commitment to Christ, and their reliance on His strength. May we seize the opportunities God places before us, trusting in His guidance and provision. Let us endure patiently, knowing that God is with us through every trial. May our lives be marked by victorious faith, unwavering devotion, and a deep love for our Savior. May we be a community that walks through the open doors before us, displaying God's love and grace to a world in need. May we stand firm and withstand the changes of time and culture, shining brightly as pillars in God's temple, bearing His name, and reflecting His glory.