Babylon

In your streets flowed the blood of the prophets and of God’s holy people and the blood of people slaughtered all over the world. [Revelation 18.24]

As I understand it, this sentence is addressed to Babylon.

Many of the references to Babylon in Revelation mention her wealth and luxury. Babylon undeniably speaks of materialism.

Naturally, along with materialism, Babylon is known for its sexual excess and perversion. But the significance of the passage above is that Babylon is responsible for the slaughter of God's holy people.

While I have little knowledge, at this point, of all that Babylon means, I think it safe to watch the world over for wealth and luxury and remain mindful that that wealth and luxury may indeed point to Babylon.

These are just thoughts. However, it seems prudent, in my lack of understanding, to at least try to seek continuity between the Revelation and the world in which I now live. 

"Wealth and luxury" are just clues that might highlight where I should be looking with caution for Babylon because Babylon is the place where God's holy people are slaughtered. Interestingly enough, people "all over the world" are murdered in the streets of Babylon making me think Babylon is not a single place as much as it is a mindset... Now we might be getting somewhere!

Hmm.

Father, help me to be watchful for the signs and ways of Babylon. And, help me understand what Babylon really means as it pertains to the Church and my role in it today. Help me to understand that "Babylon" is as a prostitute, meaning it has significant "attraction" associated with its wealth and debauchery. Help me understand!