The context of Revelation 3 is a message to a church that has become complacent. John is writing to the church in Sardis, famous for its brand but lacking in its spiritual substance. They look impressive but are asleep. Apathetic. The religious world is applauding them, but the God of the Universe is not impressed.
The call on Sardis is a great reminder for each of us. It is easy to coast. To relax and let someone else have what is ours to steward. To become complacent. Jesus calls us to awaken. To come to life. To regain the territory of our choices, our perspective, and our influence.
It is easy to settle for a life that merely looks religious. The appearance of righteousness. Performing for the superficial applause of people. But God sees all. He evaluates the heart. In the end, there is no actual escape from true reality. John talks about these facades as soiled clothing.
We are called to overcome our apathy. To turn the routine into an opportunity rather than an obstacle. We are called to a better perspective, an eternal view. To see what is true through the eyes of faith. This is the breath of life for our circumstances. It awakens us to who God is and what he is doing. More importantly, it tells us the possessions truly worth seeking. In this instance, recognition and praise from the Father.
Activation involves effort. It involves risk. There is an exposure to getting off the couch or out from behind the scenes. It is vulnerable to live your life. But the rewards outweigh the risks. The reward is God’s eternal approval.