Scripture: Revelation 20-22
Observation: I have read and re-read this several times lately. Partially because I have gotten distracted 100 times and partially because I can't believe its over! What an amazing ending!
Here is my favorite part:
(21:4-7)
"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Then the one seated on the throne said, “Look! I’m making all things new.” He also said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Then he said to me, “All is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will freely give water from the life-giving spring. Those who emerge victorious will inherit these things. I will be their God, and they will be my sons and daughters."
Application:
Everything will be new! Death will be no more! Our God is the Alpha and Omega--the Beginning and the end!
I needed to hear this today. Because even as we are finishing this journey, a new one is coming. Even as God puts and end to scripture--new chapters will be written in our lives. Even as one door closes, something else begins anew. It makes me think of the Hymn of Promise--how everything comes new. Everything changes. God who began things, can end things and then begin again.
What endings are happening in your life? What new beginnings? What challenges will God get you through? Its been my pleasure to journey with you this Summer. Its been my pleasure to guide us through the New Testament. I know each of you have strengthened my faith and inspired me! Thank you for your dilligence and your hope. Thank you for your love.
Prayer:
Alpha and Omega--Thank you for this summer. Continue to bless those who journeyed through this reading with me. Those who stopped by occasionally, and those we never knew were with us. Thank you for your insights and your grace! All glory be to you--the one who begins and ends all things. In your precious name I pray! Amen
Remember--Sunday 9/11 at 4 pm in the Parlor! I'll bring the ice cream, you bring your favorite topping!
Blessings!
Pastor Emily
7 comments:
The new Holy City has no temple- because God & the Lamb are right there to be worshiped! It needs no sun, moon or light- God & the Lamb are there to shine! There is no sea to separate us from those we love.
The wedding of the Lamb has come! His bride the church (not a building, but the people who love and serve God) will live with Him forever! Our God Almighty reigns! King of King and Lord of Lords! Hallelujah and Amen!
(The last word in the Bible is AMEN!)
Thanks for the study, Pastor Emily! Everyone enjoy and extra scoop for me.
What a blessing this study has been! Thank you Emily for your leadership and perseverance to continue this through all the ups and downs, ins and outs of summer. It has been a blessing!
I have had the new beginning of being a caregiver and changing my role in love to my mother. There are tough days, but all in all, it's a blessing to do all I can to help her find peace each and every day.
Today, this jumped out at me... The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.
To me, this spoke to me about inviting other to "come" to know God. I wouldn't know God if it hadn't been for an invitation. So, this scripture is challenging me to invite others to "come".
This study has been so great!!! And thanks you for your commitment to lead us through the New Testament over the summer. See you Sunday!
Emily you were so committed to this study...you are truly an inspiration. I have fallen a bit behind but am determined to finish reading it all by this weekend. Come too far not to finish it :)
Awe! Thanks everyone!!! It was an honor to journey with each of you! Thanks for being part of this!!! Can't wait for the next chapter!
I finished! Even though I did not always keep up with the daily reading, knowing I could always log on and read Emily's commentary and the rest of your comments made me want to keep going. Thanks everyone! See you Sunday.
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