SCRIPTURE: Revelation 22
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
The vision of the new Jerusalem continues from the previous chapter. Then John hears the reason for the vision: to bless and encourage those who are living in this time of persecution, to those who believe and obey its message. Interestingly, Jesus says that the time is coming soon, though from our vantage point that was almost 2000 years ago.
The visions that John saw were coming true then, have continued to come true through the ages, and will ultimately come true on the last day. There are many applications, and all events in history are a partial fulfillment of the unfolding plan of God. The visions shows that they increase in intensity towards the end of this age. In other words, things will get worse before they get better.
Like John and other believers then, we can take comfort from the imminent presence of Jesus. The Spirit and the Bride (the fulfilled People of God we saw in the vision) are saying “come”, keep on moving towards the vision. Don’t give up, don’t lose hope or faith. Things are unfolding according to the plan and purpose of God.
I’ve been thinking lately that my faith-life is feeling dull, lukewarm, passive (Revelation 3:15-16). Have I surrendered to the apparent wealth and success of the world, so that I do not prize my citizenship in the kingdom that much? Have we made ourselves at home in the world? I suspect that one reason why so many third-world Jesus followers are so passionate is because the world has so little for them (and is in fact often against them).
I want to be inspired with confidence, anticipation, and eagerness to see as many people as possible to be reconnected to God through Jesus. I am building God’s family, gathering “living stones”. How can I be lukewarm? Am I not concerned that those who refuse Jesus will not have a place in the new world? Am I not eager to see as many people as possible to be there?
PRAYER:
Lord, forgive me for being lukewarm. Please use this vision and Your Spirit to ignite the flame in my heart for You and Your purpose!
I love the picture of this tree of life, that bears a different fruit every month … just picture it … what provision God offers!
I wonder what the different fruit will be?
Now that will be a sight to see.
Once again we have the tree – paradise regained. We will see His face and His name will be on our foreheads. We will not die because we have seen the Lord, but we will reign with Him forever and ever. Until that day, may I continue to do what is right and holy and true for the Lord God Almighty reigns. I choose You Lord as my Master and King. Fill me and renew me each day with the water from Your well spring so each day I am renewed to serve You wholey and holy. You are coming as You have promised and I have promised to serve You until the end. Renewed me, re-energize me by Your Spirit each day so I may not be found wanting, but that my spirit is willing and able and eager and . . . so that I may use each opportunity to share with those around me the reason of my faith in You. Quench my thirst with the water of LIFE.
The Lord has promised good to me…
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be…
as long as life endures.
When we’ve been here ten thousand years…
bright shining as the sun.
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise…
then when we’ve first begun.