WEEK 22 MEMORY VERSE:
”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. 4He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Revelation 21:3-4

Thursday, August 13, 2009
Revelation 21:1- 27
Newness after Judgment
This vision of newness (the new heavens, the new earth, and the New Jerusalem) provides a striking contrast to the dark scenes of war, judgment, and destruction that precede it. There are numerous images of hope an contentment that all work together to deliver the message that this is a fresh start and a new reality – that the time of war, death, suffering, sin, and judgment have given way to an eternal age of peace, life, joy, and unbroken relationship with God. There is the church as a bride; the spring of the water of life where the thirsty can drink without cost; the beautiful jewels all around; the river of the water of life; the tree of life; and the closeness of God to his people, resulting in no temple, no light source, and an atmosphere of absolute purity. Praise God today as you experience this promise in the form of a vision. Give him thanks and glory for the perfection of this eternal home. Dedicate yourself anew to living as a child of the God who will make this all a reality for you.

Prayer Starter:
Thank you, Lord, that as your follower I will one day get to participate in this ultimate existence of bliss and eternal peace. Allow me to walk through my day today with the knowledge that I am a citizen of a different kingdom, and that although it is not here in its fullness yet, I have your promise that it will be truly glorious beyond all that I have experienced in my life here.