Heaven is Near

I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling-place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them.” [ REVELATION 21:3 ]

I’ll never forget what one of my older friends said when her son died unexpectedly: “Heaven seems nearer.” In her sadness over losing her son she sought God’s perspective and comfort, and in doing so she sensed the distance lessen between God’s kingdom on earth and His kingdom in heaven.

We learn about God’s new kingdom through the visions that John received and recorded in the book of Revelation. We may find the imagery and allusions hard to understand, but the early church would not have found it as jarring because of their familiarity with the Old Testament books of Ezekiel and Daniel. As we read in Revelation, John saw “the first heaven and the first earth” disappear (REVELATION 21:1) and understood that God was making his dwelling-place with His people (V. 3). Not only will He wipe away our tears but He’ll remove the spectre of death and pain and sorrow and crying all together (V. 4). We will be filled with joy beyond measure as we live in His presence, worshipping Him and enjoying full communion with our neighbours. My older friend’s remark feels poignant now, for she died several years ago. Although I miss her, I find hope in her example of turning to God and seeking His perspective. When I imagine her singing to her heart’s content in God’s presence in the new kingdom, I reflect with a smile that heaven seems nearer.

AMY BOUCHER PYE

REFLECT: How can you keep the hope of heaven near to you today? Why do you think it important to do so?

PRAY: Creator God, You formed the heavens and the earth and You continue to redeem them and make them new. Help me trust You for all that You have for me.