Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.  I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.  ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

The promise of newness speaks to our deepest longings for renewal and transformation. It offers us hope that the trials and tribulations of this world are not the end but rather a prelude to a glorious beginning. The very essence of God's proclamation, "I am making everything new," assures us that no matter the struggles we face, there is a divine plan to restore, refresh, and revitalize all of creation.

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When we internalize this promise, it shifts our perspective. We begin to see our challenges as temporary and our journey as part of a larger, divine narrative. This newness also implies a renewed sense of purpose, where our lives are continuously being reshaped and refined for a higher calling. The vision of a new heaven and a new earth fills us with anticipation and joy, knowing that we are moving towards a reality where pain, suffering, and sorrow are no more.

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Pain and suffering are integral parts of the human experience, often shaping and defining our lives in profound ways. Yet, in the midst of our darkest moments, the promise of God's newness serves as a beacon of hope. It reminds us that our present afflictions are not permanent fixtures but transient phases leading to a grander design. This assurance can transform our pain into a pathway for growth, fostering resilience and fortitude within us.

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Furthermore, the certainty that God will wipe away every tear and eradicate death, mourning, crying, and pain is a powerful source of comfort. It encourages us to persevere, knowing that our sorrows will be replaced with everlasting joy. As we navigate the complexities of life, this divine promise enables us to face adversity with a hopeful heart, confident in the ultimate renewal and restoration that awaits. Not only does God give us hope for tomorrow, He also gives us hope for today.

Most of us enjoy new things- that new car smell or opening up a fresh box from Amazon Prime (I’ve had way too many of those!). There’s an excitement that comes along with the novelty of new things, but eventually it tends to wear off. However, with God, we can know that there is an everlasting joy that we will have when we get to the other side which can give us hope no matter the circumstance.

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When have you needed hope? Perhaps, like me, you have seen several loved ones plagued by cancer and the suffering that comes along with it, and you need hope for healing. Or maybe you need hope for a failing marriage, a wayward child, or a new job. In John 16:33, Jesus says “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”  Here, Jesus lets us know that we will face troubles in this life, yet we can still have hope in Him. Isn’t it refreshing to know that there are better days ahead where pain and suffering will be no more? How does that change your perspective of your current situation?

Father, thank you for giving us hope that no matter what we face in this life, there are better days ahead. Help us to endure, knowing that you are with us and one day there will be no more sadness or pain. Amen.