Today I had another very pleasant day. I believe this was because I have friends. A lot of friends. I love my friends. I had a lovely day at church and resting afterwards. Then headed for a neighborhood joint to watch part of the game with my roommate.
This morning we had a rare message talking about how amazing heaven is going to be. One of the interesting points for me was thinking about the “new earth” we will have and where I want to live on it. Well, I hate to copy my pastor, but Montana. I have always wanted to retire there except I have never wanted to deal with the snow. The way I figure it: the cold will not bother me on the new earth and neither will the snow.
As part of one of my classes, I am reading Christ + City by Jon M. Dennis. He talks about the new Jerusalem in the first chapter. On account of this morning’s message and the book, I have been thinking a bit about heaven this week. I have made two conclusions.
God’s idea of a city is one that revolves around Him, not us. Babel (Genesis 11) versus the new Jerusalem (Revelations 21). The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. Revelations 21:23
I am really glad there is such a large difference between the city that never sleeps and the one where there is no night. (Revelations 21:25) No separation, no death, no mourning, no crying, no pain, no night, no thirst, nothing impure, nothing shameful, nothing deceitful, no curse versus the isolation of a large city, murder, disappointment, broken hearts, disease, darkness, a never-satisfied thirst, prostitution, idol worship, deception and disillusionment. I want to move to the one where there is no night. Soon.
Still hurting. Still slightly exhausted. Still angry. Still resentful. Still a bit tense. But I have hope.
There was no longer any sea…He will wipe every tear from their eyes…no more death or mourning or crying or pain…To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life….Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful…No longer will there be any curse. Revelations 21-22:3