I recently finished reading the New Testament (a 4 month project turned into a 10 month project thanks to the wedding and finishing up seminary). I have to say that over the years, especially after having spent time studying the history and background of the scriptures, I have grown to really enjoy reading through the different books. As a sci-fi buff, I really have to say that the book of Revelation is really one of the most interesting books. It's vivid imagery and it's prophetic voice really makes the mind wander! And, well, I am the king of the wandering mind!
So, anyway. When I was reading, there were lots of questions that kept popping into my mind. For example, of the 12 foundations of the new city, each are to be labeled with the name of the one of the 12 apostles. I started wondering who the 12 are? Is it the original twelve (and, if it is, how would that be, since I really don't think Judas will be a foundation of the city) or is it another twelve, which may include Paul, Luke or others. Then, there was the statement that there won't be anymore oceans. No oceans? This weekend, me and Emily are visiting her brother in Virginia Beach, and I have to say, the ocean is one of the most beautiful things in God's creation!
What conclusion I came to was that with God in our very presence, we would not be bothered that there wouldn't be any ocean - and big deal if the high mountains have been leveled (again in Revelation). The reality is that nothing really compares to actually living in the presence of our great God. That, of course, is a WOW kind of thought. We find ourselves so bothered by questions, and even seminaries and churches are often split in ungodly anger over the mysteries of God. How interesting that in the end, nothing else will matter - even the creature comforts and the incredibly beautiful creation that God has given us. Nothing else but the beauty of our Lord and how He has saved us to spend eternity with Him.
Again, a WOW kind of thought!
