In Samuel Beckett’s play, Waiting for Godot, two characters occupy the stage and talk, all the while waiting for the arrival of someone named Godot. He is mentioned from time to time but still has not appeared by the end of the drama. Sometimes we might feel like the two characters in this play—we get tired of waiting. When will Christ return? When will justice and righteousness prevail? When will earthly history come to an end? All we can say is what Christ said in the epilogue to Revelation: “I am coming soon!” (vv. 12–13). No matter what “soon” means, the important truth is that He could return at any time.

Who will get into heaven (vv. 14–15)? Those who “wash their robes,” that is, those who accept God’s offer of salvation in Christ. Who won’t get into heaven? Sinners. This is a stark reminder of what’s at stake in following Christ: our eternal destinies. With the consequences so enormous, following in His steps should be our top priority. The implication is that we should always be living by faith and pursuing righteousness (1 John 3:6–9). If we’re truly saved, our lives will show it.

All who hear the words of this book are invited to “come” to the water of life, to salvation in the Lamb (vv. 16–17). Accepting the invitation will eventually lead to the heavenly New Jerusalem. Christ sent this “testimony”—the book of Revelation—as one more call for people to choose eternal life. Why choose against the Alpha and the Omega?

Readers are also warned not to add or take away from the words of this book (vv. 18–19). God will judge and punish anyone who does so. Yes, He is coming soon (vv. 20–21)! The book’s concluding prayer is ours as well: “Come, Lord Jesus.”