Did you, like me, have a hard time resonating with today’s reading? On the surface, at least, it was hard for me because I’m an American citizen live in Mexico, very far from the great city of Jerusalem. I have never been there, although it’s on my bucket list to get there one day.
However, on further study and reflection, I see that the reference here is probably more accurately a foreshadow of the “New Jerusalem”, that is when heaven comes to earth. It will be a place where all believers will one day gather. Therefore, we should all have our sights on Jerusalem as our future will be there, with God.
Can you imagine gathering with all believers? What a glorious reunion. My thoughts quickly turn to those who don’t yet grasp the truth, those that have denied Jesus and their inheritance. My heart breaks for them. There are many who don’t even know about the saving grace of our Lord Jesus. We’ve got our work cut out for us to spread the good news to everyone. The Holy Spirit is preparing their hearts, they just need to hear.
Why is it when we think of those needing to hear the good news we always picture those in a remote village in the jungle? While those are people needing to hear, there are plenty of people in our neighborhoods that don’t know the redemption story. Not everyone is a missionary called to the mission field abroad, but we are all called to share about Jesus where we are.
How can you make a difference today? Is there someone in your life that doesn’t yet know about the promise of heaven, the love of God, the forgiveness of sins? Take time now to pray for those people.
Let’s pray. Lord I do pray for the day of your coming as all believes will come together and share in the beauty of the New Jerusalem, a city you have prepared for us. How glorious that will be. We cannot fathom the beauty or majesty. Help me to set aside the worry that my loved ones will not make the journey there, that they will fail to put their trust in you. I pray that you will bring the right people into their lives to speak to their hearts, just as you have readied their hearts to listen. Awaken the Holy Spirit within them to prepare them for that moment. Stir up the desire and longing they can only quench with you. Use me as the “right” person for someone in my sphere. Heal our hearts from pain, doubt and brokenness. We are not defeated for you have won the battle, and the victory is won! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
