In this Season of Advent, (only nine days until Christmas), we remember Israel's long anticipation of the Messiah. We identify with their experience as we await the promised return of the Messiah, King Jesus.
Today I turned to the familiar verses at the end of Rev. 21 and beginning of 22. I'll be preaching on the "Future Light" this Sunday as part of our four week Christmas theme of Light. This morning I was again struck by all that will be missing in the glorious New Jerusalem. Do you remember that in that Holy City there will be:
No temple. Ancient cities - Athens, Rome, Ephesus, Corinth - all had a major temple, often the largest building in the city. Ancient Jerusalem of course had the Temple built under Solomon's rule. But there will be no need for a temple in our future home for God Himself will be fully present there.
No need for the sun, moon or artificial lighting. The glory of God will be all the light required. Notice that the sun and moon may still shine, and lamps may be used - but God's perfect light out shines them all.
No closed gate. In ancient times, where weapons were limited, strong gates connected to impregnable walls were a city's major defence against any danger. The fact that the Holy City never closes its gate signals that there will be no danger, no threat of violence. People in that city are totally secure.
No impurity. How much money, energy and time are wasted in our cities because of impurity. Think of the security measures retailers install because of dishonesty and theft. Think of the expense of police, security guards, jails, locks, burglar alarms, etc. How many lawyers are employed due simply to the impurity of people and companies that cannot trust each other? Imagine TV, movies and video games in the Holy City, devoid of all impurity! How different that city will be.
Yes, there will be so much missing, to which every city dweller on earth has become accustomed. I hope you are looking forward to His Coming and the City of the Future during this season of Advent. (Part two tomorrow)
Today I turned to the familiar verses at the end of Rev. 21 and beginning of 22. I'll be preaching on the "Future Light" this Sunday as part of our four week Christmas theme of Light. This morning I was again struck by all that will be missing in the glorious New Jerusalem. Do you remember that in that Holy City there will be:
No temple. Ancient cities - Athens, Rome, Ephesus, Corinth - all had a major temple, often the largest building in the city. Ancient Jerusalem of course had the Temple built under Solomon's rule. But there will be no need for a temple in our future home for God Himself will be fully present there.
No need for the sun, moon or artificial lighting. The glory of God will be all the light required. Notice that the sun and moon may still shine, and lamps may be used - but God's perfect light out shines them all.
No closed gate. In ancient times, where weapons were limited, strong gates connected to impregnable walls were a city's major defence against any danger. The fact that the Holy City never closes its gate signals that there will be no danger, no threat of violence. People in that city are totally secure.
No impurity. How much money, energy and time are wasted in our cities because of impurity. Think of the security measures retailers install because of dishonesty and theft. Think of the expense of police, security guards, jails, locks, burglar alarms, etc. How many lawyers are employed due simply to the impurity of people and companies that cannot trust each other? Imagine TV, movies and video games in the Holy City, devoid of all impurity! How different that city will be.
Yes, there will be so much missing, to which every city dweller on earth has become accustomed. I hope you are looking forward to His Coming and the City of the Future during this season of Advent. (Part two tomorrow)
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