When Heaven Went Silent (Rev. 8:1-3)

The book of Revelation is often one of the most discouraging books to the average bible student. Due to the difficulty in understanding the symbols and signs of the book, many throw in the towel by chapter 4. However, the individual who places a great emphasis on this book will discover some beautiful truths.

One of the most unique sections of the book of Revelation is found in Chapter 8. Up to this point, the Lamb has been gathering seven "seals" or scrolls, in order to complete the full revelation of Jesus Christ. Upon this chapter, the Lamb has gathered the seventh seal and something incredible happens. John writes, "When the Lamb broke the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer; and much incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne" (Rev. 8:1-3). Now while there is imagery in this text that may be foreign to you, I want you to consider two observations with me.

First, Heaven was completely silent. One must consider why this detail was menitoned by John. Perhaps John was giving a picture of Heaven that often does not happen. Perhaps, Heaven is usually not quiet. When studying scripture, we know that there is rejoicing in Heaven (Lk. 15:10), and we know that there are those who are crying out in worship before the throne (Rev. 4). On this ocassion, this silince is significant. Chapter 7 ended with this great scene of tribulation being resolved by the lamb, and then there is silinece. What a beuatiful picture! We see serenity after God's people overcome.

Second, notice that prayer matters to God. Many commentaters suggest that as Heaven fell silent, it was the prayers of the saints that were focused upon. Consider the prayers that the saints mustve have offered in their tribulation in chapter 7; the prayers are then contained in a bowl. See the picture thus far: a great tribulation, a great silince, and then the prayers are gathered. In the toughest point of the book as the children of God endure tradgey, yet God sees and considers their prayers.

There is a great confidence and comfort in knowing that Heaven pays attention to my prayers, and Heaven takes a moment of silence during my affliction. God cares for us imensly and God offers us an avenue to experince His love and comfort through prayer. When Heaven went silent, it was becasue God cared for people like me.