Paul Merideth

Today, I’m inviting you to simply reflect upon a text. That’s a basic yet profound exercise, wouldn’t you agree? Revelation 21:1-6 hands us a vision of God’s ultimate plan for redemption, restoration, resolve, and renewal. This image of a new heaven and new earth pictures a place where God Himself will dwell with us, wiping away every tear and making all things new.

As we launch into a fresh year, the promise of God making all things new shines brightly through the darkness of our brokenness. Not only do we look forward to eschatological renewal, but as recipients of God’s grace, we are invited to participate in personal renewal in the here and now.

May God bless you in the reading of His Word. Without further delay, here’s the text for your reflection:

REVELATION 21:1-6

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.”

  • 1st Week of 2024 Reading: PSALM 103:1-4 “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.”
  • Prayer to God: “Heavenly Father, we are grateful for the gift of life. Help us cherish each day, find strength in challenges, and cultivate kindness. May we be mindful stewards of this precious gift, caring for ourselves and others. We ask your continued blessings upon us in this new year. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.”
  • Video Devotional Spotlight: Bible Study #1
  • Reflections: Have you thought about any New Year’s resolutions? One of mine is to learn to appreciate life more this year. I want to be more optimistic. My goal is to be grateful for the gift of my life and develop attitudes that will draw me closer to God.
  • Current Reads: I’m about halfway through Wrestling with Job. It’s by father and son duo Bill and Will Kynes. I like how they honor the sophistication of the text of Job in a writing style with exceptional readability. In other words, it offers a good balance of academic and practical.
  • Sermon Preview: I’m starting the year with a January sermon series about the if/then statements of Jesus. First up, if you know Jesus, then you know life. You’re invited to come and worship with us.

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