Friday, January 1, 2010

Day 40: Revelation 21-22

Come.

You shouldn't read the end of the book first - most of the time. If you do, it spoils all of the tension and suspense because you know how it turns out. When your life is the story, however, it helps to know how it will all turn out. It gives us hope and endurance as we face life difficulties.

Revelation 21-22 show us the end. No matter how things appear at the moment, we are given a picture of what He is working to bring about. We were created to know God - not know about Him - but know Him fully. Our sin broke this relationship the first time. The standard will be the same - there will be no sin in His presence. The difference is that at one time, all of us were sinful and kept from His presence. Now, Jesus has provided the way for us to enter. We are forgiven of our sins, remade in the likeness of Jesus, and able to enter the presence of God due to His blood. God is working to redeem the world that He created and we destroyed. One day, Jesus will return and complete this work.

All that we long for will be fulfilled on this day. We will live face to face with God. He will rule us with His grace and love. The curse of our sin will be removed, death will be defeated, suffering and pain will be banished. All that we need is provided freely and without cost.

Nothing can stand in His way or keep Him from establishing His plan. It has not been completed yet. Sin is still present. The curse is in full force. But God is still working. The final word has yet to be spoken. For a time, Satan will still be free to work. But one day, Jesus will come again and set all things right. Do not be discouraged by what you see around you. Instead, hold firm to Jesus - we will overcome through Him. Come to Him and receive life through Him.

"The Spirit and the bride say 'Come!' And let him who hears say 'Come!' Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the waters of life." Rev. 22:17