December 13 — "Worthy, Always Worthy"

Today's Reading: Revelation 4

In Revelation 4, the imagery bursts with numbers—yes, numbers—that carry profound spiritual meaning, unveiling the order and majesty of God’s creation. The vision begins with one throne at the center, encircled by twenty-four thrones where twenty-four elders sit. That number, 24, shouts unity—blending the 12 tribes of Israel with the 12 Apostles of Christ, weaving together the Old and New Covenants. Together, they form a complete representation of the family of God, a dazzling tapestry of His redemptive plan.

As John looks closer, four living creatures emerge—each unique, yet united in purpose—straight out of Biblical imagery: the lion, the calf, the man, and the eagle. These four represent the sweep of creation: strength, servitude, humanity, sovereignty. They remind us that every corner of creation, from the mighty to the minuscule, reflects the Creator’s glory. And here’s the fascinating part: these same creatures also appear in Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 1 and 10), showing that God’s revelation is consistent, intentional, and gloriously interconnected across the Bible.

Then comes the triple refrain: “Holy, holy, holy.” Perfection in tri-phonic audio! The number three signals divine completeness, and in this triad we glimpse the eternal magnificence of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It’s a heavenly rhythm, pulsing through eternity, inviting us to join the cosmic chorus.

Verse 11 ties the whole scene together like a grand finale: “Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they existed and were created.” This anthem reminds us that even amid the numerical majesty of divine order, our lives matter. Each of us, as part of God’s heavenly multitude, plays a role in His eternal plan.

And then—the twenty-four elders hurl their crowns before the throne. What a picture! In the ancient world, lesser kings laid their crowns at the feet of greater rulers, declaring, “My power and significance is nothing compared to you.” Roman client kings did it for Caesar, and medieval monarchs set their crowns down to acknowledge a higher throne. With that backdrop, Revelation’s scene explodes with meaning. These crowns symbolize personal honor, service, achievement—and yet the elders don’t cling to them. This isn’t defeat; it’s devotion. By casting their crowns, the elders confess that every ounce of their personal greatness is nothing compared to the One who is holy, mighty, and above all. Their crowns were never really theirs anyway—every honor is a gift from the Creator. In that single, dramatic act, they reveal the heartbeat of worship: humility—a joyful surrender that shouts, “All glory belongs to God alone!”

So may the Lord lift your eyes to His throne today, give you courage to lay down every crown, and fill you with joy as you join heaven’s ancient, unending song: “Worthy are You, our Lord and God.”