They will hunger no more, and thirst no more; the sun will not strike them, nor any scorching heat; for the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of the water of life, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” vss. 16-17
Revelation 7:13-17
There are some people who don’t particularly like the book of Revelation. They’re literalists and the beautiful metaphors and images don’t touch their hearts. They believe that since we can’t really know anything about life after death, we shouldn’t say anything. But what fun is that! The words of comfort in these verses have lifted the spirits of mourners for centuries. Of course they’re metaphors, but metaphors aren’t lies! They’re the words used to describe the indescribable and to paint a picture of what we want for our loved ones beyond death. No more hunger, no more thirst, no more Phoenix summer heat! The Good Shepherd will be there to guide them to springs of living water, and then we see these incredible words, “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” Some may prefer the light-filled testimony of those who have had near death experiences, but for sheer beauty there’s nothing that can beat Revelation. Whatever lies ahead for us, these words provide all the reassurance any of us need to hear. And tomorrow, on All Saints Day, perhaps we’ll be able to imagine our loved ones in the arms of the Shepherd, and really, who could want for anything more!
Thought for the Day: Why are images better than words to describe new life?
0 Comments