(This is the 28th post in our June series about the mystifying and mysterious and ultimately beautiful Book of Revelation.)
In the final two chapters (21 and 22) of Revelation, John’s strange and seemingly gloomy vision comes to a beautiful climax.
ENGRAVING BY GUSTAV DORÉ, (1832-1883)
It’s here that he takes us on a tour of the holy city, the “New Jerusalem,” which is ever-illuminated by the light of the Lamb of God.
The city is walled, and yet the gates are open. It’s the most inclusive city imaginable as people of all nations, all races are welcome.
In this city, there is no need for anybody, in a manner of modern speaking, to “lock the doors.” In this great metropolis there is no violence, no injustice, no ill will toward anyone.
A river runs through it. The river’s source is the throne of God and the Lamb. It’s banks are full of splendid trees with healthy fruits.
The leaves of the trees–these are not just any leaves.
They are for the healing not only of individuals, but of whole nations. These leaves have the power to heal you or me, but also Iraq and Russia and Syria and Israel and, for that matter, the U.S.A.
In this city, ain’t nobody and no nation feelin’ no pain.
Today’s takeaway:
28. Revelation is, at bottom, a reminder that God is the God of healing power, a reminder that we’re all broken, violent-prone people in need of God’s endless love, extravagant grace and healing powers.
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