New Heavens and New Earth

We all look forward to a renewed world and in our corner of it, for all to go well.

This is probably not realistic 24/7. Usually, the only thing needing change is us and the

way we look at each of our own circumstances, particularly as a caretaker. These

verses written nearly at the end of the prophet Isaiah, give us God’s answer that He is

creating new heavens and new earth. God will answer the prayer of His people in a

way that exceeds their wildest dreams. He has reserved a place in His new world for

people of humble faith.

New creation is taking form even when we can’t see it. We do sense hints of it

now and then, though, just like we might make out an elbow or foot poking from within a

pregnant woman’s belly. One day it will be pushed forth into life, like a new baby

emerging from the womb. We have rebirths all around us, as we have eyes to see. Yes,

life has many ups and downs and reading and studying Scripture helps us to stay

centered.

For example, in John’s symbolic language in Revelation 21:1-4, “Then I saw a

new heaven and a new earth. The former heaven and the former earth had passed

away and the sea was no more. I also saw the holy city, a new Jerusalem, coming down

out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. I heard a loud

voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, God’s dwelling is with the human race. He will

dwell with them, and they will be His people and God Himself will always be with them

(as their God.) He will wipe every tear from their eyes and there shall be no more death

or mourning, wailing or pain, the old order has passed away.”

This description of what heaven really is, enables us to await God eagerly and

welcome Him joyfully. Further in Revelation 21:18-21, John hears Jesus’ promise, “I am

coming soon and urges holiness.” Gratefully God’s love carries us through all the

difficult circumstances we face. As we reframe our perspective, our focus is not on the

burdens, it is on the blessings. God sends us glimpses of heaven in our undertakings

through loved ones and those who companion us. His strength will always carry us as

we echo the words of Psalm 18:2-3, “I love you, Lord, my strength, Lord, my rock, my

fortress, my deliverer. My God, my rock of refuge, my shield, my saving horn, my

stronghold!” Let us trust and believe that God will wipe away every tear (Revelation

21:4) will never leave us (Hebrews 13:5) and is always with us (Matthew 28:20). Lord,

let our eyes be opened to Your wonders!