Devotion: Memorial Day
Revelation 21:2-7
And I saw the holy city, the 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,
“See, the home of God is among mortals.
He will dwell with them;
they will be his peoples,
and God himself will be with them;
he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
Death will be no more;
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
for the first things have passed away.”
And the one who was seated on the throne said, “See, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Then 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 water as a gift from the spring of the water of life. Those who conquer will inherit these things, and I will be their God and they will be my children.
The study of the Holy Scriptures has always been something I enjoy. Diving deep into different books of the Bible and being able to share those thoughts with others was what I call “fun.” I remember when I was little in Sunday School and a teacher asked our class what book we would like to study next. Eagerly I put up my hand and said, “Oo-oo, can we study Revelations?” Shock and horror covered her face!
“You’re not ready for that! Let’s pick a different book!” and on she went. My mind reeled, what was in that book that was, well…horrible? Thank goodness time and a little reading has taught me, more than ever, that this book gives us a foretaste of yes, things to come but also a source of comfort that God is truly in control.
The “Mountain Top” experiences we’ve been dwelling on through our Sunday messages have been a source of drawing us into God further. And of how no matter what the experience, God is with us. Going up the mountain and coming down from it. That He continues to “be” with us.
The comfort of feeling “at home” with Him becomes a safe haven. Pastor Michelle showed a picture of her house growing up. She spoke of that feeling of “home” that she connected with that house from the photo. I know that feeling as well. You see after my mother died suddenly in 1998, I knew my dad would need help. With medications and eventually dialysis, we moved into that house with him and for the next 9 years, I took care of him. You see Daddy used to tell people that he gave me a house for my first birthday! Yes, that’s how long this house has been part of the feeling of “home”. I wouldn’t trade that time with him for anything although some days were rough. God was with me.
God continually sustains us throughout our lives. The name the angels gave to Jesus, “Emmanuel” or “God with us” takes on new meaning and depth. He brings us with Him. No matter what the circumstances. The more we acknowledge him in our heart and mind, the more He makes His presence felt. We can take comfort in this and draw it into our hearts to feel that presence of “Home”. And we can look forward to that time when we are REALLY at “home” with our Lord and Savior, and actually hear His voice of love and peace.
Take moments wherever you can to draw Him close. Dwell in His presence a while and feel that sense of knowing how very much He loves you!
Dearest Heavenly Father, there is so much we gain from our relationship with you. The blessings you give us can’t be counted. How can we thank you enough? Help us to remember that you are with us no matter where we go, whether mountaintop or valley low, you are there. Amen
Written by Fran Baatz