On either side of the river [of life] is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.” vs. 2
Revelation 22:1-5
As he describes the river of life that flows through the holy city of his vision, John puts his finger on a truth that many will find compelling. Along its banks grows the tree of life, which not only bears fruit, but whose leaves are for the healing of the nations. John realizes that the woes of this world not only stem from the sins of individuals but that the nations themselves bear a direct responsibility. We can easily see how this corporate sin has played out through the centuries. Nations rise against nations and inflict horrendous harm and damage with endless wars and senseless attacks. Infected by the disease of nationalism millions of individuals become fervent supporters of genocide and annihilation. We demonize other peoples and races and rejoice when they are slaughtered. Most people would never commit such atrocities on their own–but when fueled by the fire of political propaganda, humans become savages. We gladly approve the expenditure of billions on bombs and missiles while resisting the spending of millions for humanitarian assistance. Oh how wonderful life will be when the nations receive the healing power of the tree of life, and international relationships are marked by expressions of kindness and love!
Thought for the Day: What healing does our nation need?
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