Read: Revelation 22:1-14
They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. (v. 4)
Think about the great nations of the world, and you will probably think of their capital cities: London, Paris, Tokyo, Moscow, and Washington, DC. These capitals represent more than places of power. They are also cultural centers, where art and history are on display. These great cities bear witness to the pride and spirit of their people.
The New Jerusalem is the capital city of the new earth! John describes this beautiful city in Revelation 22. The river of life, “bright as crystal” flows through New Jerusalem (v. 1). The tree of life, once found in the Garden of Eden, now brings healing and life to the nations (v. 2). Best of all: the New Jerusalem is the seat of power for the new earth, because the “throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it” (v. 3). There is no need for the sun or any other light source; “the Lord God will be their light” (v. 5). Here all things will be new, and humanity’s relationship with God will finally be restored: as God walked in the midst of Eden, so he will be in the midst of his people forever.
All this may seem hard to imagine, but God is at work in our lives even now, preparing us for this future. Truly he has made us new through Christ’s work of redemption, and is making us new by his Spirit. Someday soon, all things will be new as we reign with him forever! —Laura N. Sweet
As you pray, give thanks for this wonderful promise.
About the Author
Laura N. Sweet is a wife, mother, grandmother, and former Christian schoolteacher from Midland, Michigan. She writes devotional material for both adults and children, and her work has appeared in more than a dozen publications.
