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

Friday, August 14, 2009
Revelation 22:1-5
A Place of Life
The description of the New Jerusalem continues with a more detailed look at the inner life of the city. The picture John paints is truly one of paradise returned. There are three dominant images that drive home the message that this is above all else a place of life, perpetual and abundant: the river, the tree, and the light. The river of life flows from God’s throne, recalling water as a frequent metaphor in scripture for life. It is frequently associated with the salvation of God and cleansing by the Holy Spirit – life from God streams constantly through this new world. The tree represents the restoring of everything that was lost at the fall, when Adam was thrown out of Eden. This tree has abundant fruit and medicinal leaves, signifying the overcoming and healing of all of the effects of sin. Finally the presence of perpetual light due to the manifest presence of God communicates his glory. Because God is there among his people, death and sin have no place there. What a glorious place for us to spend eternity!

Prayer Starter:
Lord, as I live today in this world, with all of the evidence of the fall so visible around me (sin, death, and darkness), I thank you that I can look forward to a time when there is no falleness left. I rejoice as I look forward to that day of life, and I ask that you keep me focused on eternal values today.