Throughout this series of devotionals, we have examined God’s story in six acts: Beginnings, Revolt, People, Savior, Church, and Forever. We have said that Jesus is the common thread that ties these acts together. He is present in every story and over all creation (Colossians 1:15-20).
We’ve also asked: What does God’s story have to do with me? We have seen that your story, and everyone’s stories, connect with God’s by design.
- In Act I — Beginnings, we saw how God’s words are never empty. We are challenged to use our words to create and bring life as his do.
- In Act II — Revolt, we came face-to-face with the reality that we are all sinners. But God pursues sinners. He has set a plan in motion for our redemption.
- In Act III — People, we saw that throughout history, God is an unchanging promise-keeper. He loves, frees, and brings justice to his people.
- In Act IV — Savior, we were reminded that Jesus is fully God and fully human. He “gets us” and empathizes with our weaknesses.
- In Act V — Church (present day), we learned that every follower of Jesus has been sent on a mission, like the disciples, to retell Jesus’s story.
Now read Revelation 21:1-7.
What Comes Next
Act VI is about the future. God revealed a vision of what is to come to his disciple, John, what we know as the book of Revelation.
It’s no secret that Revelation is challenging to interpret. Even the most noteworthy Bible scholars disagree on what the symbolism means. But as you consider today’s passage, remember this: in Revelation, Jesus is described as a warrior king who sets right all that has gone wrong and who keeps the promises of God (Revelation 19:11-21).
He brings justice. He puts an end to wickedness. He brings about the redemption of all things. He fully and finally establishes God’s kingdom on earth.
Though Revelation is a unique book in the Bible, what it reveals about Jesus is consistent with the rest of the story. The warrior king is also sacrificial, loving, and wise. Jesus is worthy of worship and trustworthy to reign. The forever that awaits you is saturated with the love of God.
Rejoice today! Someday, in his presence, you will experience the promises of Revelation 21:4. All the pain, tears, death, and mourning from your life will pass away. All things will be made new.
Reflection
What about today’s passage excites you the most?
What do you think of this ending to God’s story? Does it motivate or inspire you?
Prayer
Thank you, God, for the future! I worship you as a mighty, promise-keeping savior. Until the day comes when I enter Forever, I pray that your Spirit blesses me with strength to build your kingdom each day on earth. May my life point others to Forever with you. Amen.
Read the rest of the Jesus Bible Devotional series — and go deeper with the full Jesus Bible Study Series.
Encounter the living Jesus in all of Scripture through The Jesus Bible — the Bible that lifts Jesus up as the lead story and encourages you to faithfully follow him as you participate in his story. Also available as part of Bible Gateway Plus!
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