Revelation 1:16.

“His face was like the sun, shining in all its brilliance.”

The appearance of Jesus’ face was the climax of the marvelous vision witnessed to and recorded by John in Chapter 1 of The Revelation. This “someone” has a familiar yet glorified face – the full expression of his personality.  It is the face of Jesus Christ himself, a face that John had looked upon for a full three years, in a great variety of settings.

John saw Jesus’ face of compassion as he healed the sick and drove out demons.

John saw the severity of Jesus’ face when he confronted the Jewish money-changers who pushed the Gentiles right out of the Temple area.

John saw Jesus weeping when he got word of his friend Lazarus’ death.

John saw Jesus’ tender, loving face as Mary poured her precious anointing oil over his weary feet.

John saw Jesus’ face as he went up to Jerusalem, a face of determination that disregarded the obvious risks that awaited him there.

John saw Jesus’ face as he command the devils who were bothering people – casting them out and setting the people free.

John saw Jesus’ face as Jesus told humorous stories like the fellow who tried to get some sleep as his neighbor clamored for him to open his door and let in needy strangers.

John saw Jesus’ face as the rulers of the Jews spit on him in derision.

John saw Jesus’ face streaked with rivulets of blood as the Romans drove the crown of thorns ever deeper.

John saw Jesus’ face in agony beyond telling, feeling the horrors of being “forsaken” by God, as he was carrying my sins and yours there on the cross.

John saw Jesus’ face as he spoke with Peter at the early morning breakfast on the lake side, a face that offered forgiveness and plead for an intimate relationship with Peter.

And now, after many years, John saw Jesus face again, this time as the risen, conquering, loving Lord – shining like the sun. Yes, it is the face of Jesus that shines to all eternity – blending all the emotional expressions of love and compassion.

What a marvelous conclusion to a never-to-be-forgotten holy vision.  I need such a vision today, maybe you, too.