Advent - Day 30

“See, I will create
    new heavens and a new earth.
The former things will not be remembered,
    nor will they come to mind.
But be glad and rejoice forever
    in what I will create,
for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight
    and its people a joy.
I will rejoice over Jerusalem
    and take delight in my people;
the sound of weeping and of crying
    will be heard in it no more.

Isaiah 65:17-19
Full Readings: Isaiah 65:17–25, Revelation 21:1–8

What a world we live in. I’m a bit of a documentary guy. I enjoy watching the BBC’s Planet Earth more than I do most TV shows. The wonders of our world and beyond are remarkable.
From the vast oceans to the mountains to the grassy plains. The beauty of the Birds of Paradise or the power of the African Elephant. It really is an amazing world. And God made it all. Every living thing comes from the mind of God.

And yet, this is a world where animals face extinction. Where volcanoes and floods destroy. The curse affects our world as much as it does ourselves.
But Jesus comes to save the world. If human sin is a blight on God’s creation, so too is the curse that plagues this land.

But what an exciting prospect. God promised it through Isaiah and set in motions the rebirth of the creation. A new heavens and new earth. A better world. What does that exactly mean? For mosquitos, flies or viruses’. Who knows? But it’s exciting to imagine.

Will you be able to surf without fear of sharks or explore the depths of the oceans without drowning? I hope so.

For Today:

• What excites you about the new heavens and new earth?
• What part of this world most saddens you?
• Reflect and look forward to the hope that Jesus brings

 
Pray: 

• Praise the Father that He is the author of beauty and wonder. 
• Give thanks for Jesus who renews all things. 
• Ask God for His Holy Spirit to help you and others look forward to the new heavens and new earth.