"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." Revelation 21:4 ESV
Who doesn't like a great ending? Whether it's in a book or movie, fiction or nonfiction, comedy or drama, fact or fantasy. No matter how many plot twists and surprises, we know how we want the story to end. We want justice to prevail, the heroine or hero to triumph, and the hope of a bright future for the characters we've come to love. We can't help it, it's hardcoded somewhere in our DNA. Because our behavioral response is so predictable, we support a whole industry of writers. Hollywood and all the publication houses, thank you!
In the book of Revelation, we find a conclusion to the spiritual journey of humankind. Where Genesis marks our beginning and fall, Revelation -- the revealing -- is the new-beginning. Amid the often confusing and disturbing imagery and numerology in Revelation, the ending fuels us with hope. While there will be times of trials and tribulations ahead, we can look forward to the triumphant return of Jesus Christ, and reconciliation of humankind in God's new kingdom on earth. When Christ returns, there will be no more separation by death, no more crying or mourning all that will be replaced by the new Eden, and perhaps once again, God will walk in the garden in the cool of the day (Gen. 3:8).
God, we thank you for the hope of your promise. In your word, we are giving a glimpse of your new kingdom on earth. We look forward to the final chapter when once again, we dwell with you and each other in peace and tranquility, all our pain and tears washed away. While we wait for that day, let us not be bashful in sharing this promise and hope we others. In Christ's name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
If you like southern gospel music, check out this video What a Day That Will Be.
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