I took this photo of Cane Creek with my phone this morning on my run. I could gaze at the gentle flow of this cool clear creek and watch the little speckled trout darting about for hours. But instead it has become just a moment to pause, catch my breath and find the courage to keep running, just a little longer.
Revelation 22 and Ezekiel 47 both are visions describing New Jerusalem, or Heaven. Heavily featured in both is a crystal clear river, flowing from the Throne. "And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the middle of it's street, and on either side of the river was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. They shall see His face, and His Name shall be on their foreheads."
One day, if you are saved by grace through faith, you will see Him and serve Him and be free...forever. You will stand by this river and eat the fruit and taste the healing leaves. But Paul encourages us to earn a crown of righteousness that is awarded to those who "Love His appearing". There is a prize for longing for Christ's return. Of course this crown will immediately be tossed at Jesus' feet in worship. But it is good to remember this earth is not our final destination.
I want to encourage you today. In all the swirl of duty and demands of life in general, in the midst of great pain or sickness, in the storms of war and violence, in the grip of fear or grief... would you take 5 minutes and ponder the city of God, the light of His face, the release of the grip of your sinful flesh? Would you be willing to put on your headphones, close your eyes and meditate and long for His appearing? As you visualize that beautiful day, that shining river, that glorious throne, that enthrawling Presence, your mind will be renewed and your strength and focus restored... just like my wind as I panted on that bridge and gazed out over that earthly river. Hit play, lean back, disconnect and let the worship sweep you away in the current of the river of life. Then rise up and finish the race.
YOU HOLD ME NOW: HILLSONG
On the day when I see
All that You have for me
When I see You face to face
There surrounded by Your grace
All my fears swept away
In the light of Your embrace
Where Your love is all I need
and forever I am free
Where the streets are made of gold
In Your presence healed and whole
Let the songs of heaven rise to You alone
No weeping
No hurt or pain
No suffering
You hold me now, You hold me now
No darkness
No sick or lame
No hiding
You hold me now, You hold me now
In this life I would stand
through my joy and my pain
Knowing there is a greater day
There's a Hope that never fades
Where Your name is lifted high
and forever praises rise
For the glory of Your name
I'm believing for the day
Where the wars and violence cease
All creation lives in peace
Let the songs of heaven rise to You alone
For eternity
All my heart will give
All the glory to Your Name
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