Dear Friends,

As the Emperor would lead the long procession from the Forbidden City to the Temple of Heaven, ordinary citizens were strictly banned from looking upon the Emperor and his entourage. The sacrifices by the Emperor were meant to cement his authority within the feudal system and news of his acts of devotion on behalf of the nation were quickly spread throughout China and help to assure the people of heaven's blessing for the year.

In Revelation 4 and 5 it opens to our view the glories of the real Temple of Heaven. You don't have to be an Emperor, make a long procession or wait to go there twice a year. You don't have to offer a sacrifice to ensure the blessing of heaven. Jesus, the true Emperor of heaven and earth, provided the sacrifice Himself and now purposes to pour out the blessings of heaven on all who would look up by faith and receive the grace, strength and wisdom He longs to bestow.

As you look up and see the blue sky today, or even if the clouds veil the glories of the sun, be assured that all heaven is interested in the most ordinary person on this earth below. Jesus longs to give us that faith that will make us His adopted sons and daughters. And when He returns soon, the great Emperor of heaven and earth will lead the procession from this sinful earth to the heaven above where we will live with Him forever and ever. I want to be part of that procession . . . . don't you?