At the end of his apocalyptic vision on the isle of Patmos, John saw a new heaven and new earth. He also saw the holy city, the New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And he heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” The one who was seated on the throne in his vision also said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” John was told to write this vision down, for the words he heard were trustworthy and true. Amazingly, at the consummation of Christ’s work, the dwelling place of God will be with humankind, and his people, the entire communion of saints, will dwell with God, be his people, and he will be their God.

Tears, trial, and suffering are major characteristics of our lives in the world’s fallen system. John says that God, when he comes to dwell with his own, will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Even death itself will be no more, “neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21.4, ESV). The Lord will end all crying and mourning when the New Age is consummated soon.

Thank you, Father, for the promise that you will bring our tears, death, mourning, and misery to an end when the holy city descends to your redeemed.

“The decisive manifestation of God’s glory and power to Israel was at Mount Sinai, after his mighty act of redeeming them from Egypt. The exodus had to take place before the promises made to their forefathers could be fulfilled and further revelation could be given. In drawing the people to that mountain, God was drawing them to himself (Ex. 19:4). At ‘the mountain of God’ (3:1; 4:27; 18:5; 24:13), Israel was enabled to approach God and acknowledge him as rescuer and lord. Here the terms of the relationship were set out in great detail and the pattern for acceptable worship was laid down by God.”

~ David G. Peterson, Engaging with God: A Biblical Theology of Worship. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1992. p. 26.

Let God Arise! Seasonal Focus
Christ the Savior Is Born, Luke 2.8-20

Book Reading
Peterson, Engaging with God

Special Church Year Service
The Epiphany of the Lord: Friday, January 6, 2023