In the coded language of the Book of Revelation, “Babylon” refers to the Roman Empire. When the Book was written the Empire was at the height of its power — political, economic, military. The known world was subject to Roman authority. Yet the Book foresees the day when one will proclaim: “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great.” For a people enduring oppression and persecution, the message that the future was in God’s hands offered hope and consolation. Jesus in Luke’s Gospel uses similar language in speaking of the “desolation” of Jerusalem. These passages remind us that no matter how dire things seem to be going God is still in charge. We have confidence, therefore, to heed the words of Jesus: “Stand erect and raise your heads.
