Rev. 21:1 – I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. Lord Jesus, thank you that our forever home won’t be an unfamiliar, abstract environment of fluffy clouds, glowing white, wings and halos. We are so glad your name is Redeemer, not Re-Do. This very world won’t be replaced, but renewed—not annihilated but resurrected and glorified—burned as the purifying process of gold—passing away like the cocoon of an emerging butterfly.
Vs. 2 – I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. How we long for the Day when we will finally experience the fullness of your love for us, Bridegroom for bride—clothed in your righteousness, completely whole, made perfect in love. Not only will our relationship with you be perfect, Jesus, but also you’re your whole bride. Every single relationship we have will be perfect, no exceptions. Jesus, we can hardly imagine. Your impossible-to-count every-nation-bride will be our best friends forever. Minds blown… hearts ready.
Vs. 3 – And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. We will be free from all limitations, knowing you in part, half-heartedness, doubts, unbelief, not loving you as your deserve. The intimacy for which we were made and long will be brought to forever-fullness.
Vs. 4 – He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying for pain, for the old order of things has passed away. Bless you most loving Jesus, for you won’t just wipe the tears out of our eyes, you will redeem the pain behind the tears. You have set an expiration date on everything that contradicts your truth, goodness, and beauty. It’s not that everything will finally make sense to us; it’s that all things will be put right. Hallelujah, 10,000 tines over.
Vs. 5 – He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making all things new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”Thank you Jesus that you are not making all new things, but you are making all things new. Again, Where there is brokenness, there will only be beauty forever. Where there is groaning in creation and in us, there will only be Hallelujahs and perfection. We are So ready and we are So thankful and we collectively pray, So Very Amen.
