Anticipation
Scripture Reading — Revelation 21:1-5
I saw the Holy City ... prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. Revelation 21:2
We've come to the end of this month in which we've focused on the inner life of the Christian. There's so much that must grow and develop deep within us before we can expect to be healthy in our external life. We've identified many inner qualities this month, and here is another. Anticipation is a great gift that God has given his pilgrim children as they journey through life in this world. Anticipation is the gift of being able to see and taste ahead of time. We exercise this gift best when we look ahead to "see and taste" the new world that is coming for us. Our journey through life in this world isn't always easy. The world is fallen, and we stumble. Paul says we groan over the "bondage to decay" that we see all around us (Romans 8:20-23). But we never lose heart because we know we are "aliens and strangers on earth" and have "a better country--a heavenly one" (Hebrews 11:13, 16) to look forward to. The book of Revelation paints a symbolic picture of this "new country" that Christ has prepared for us. It's not intended to be a full description, but it's enough to tease our hearts to reach for it and even at times to feel a bit homesick here. From deep within your heart, keep reaching for it!
Father, keep that vision of a new world clearly before our eyes. Help us to serve you faithfully here while we anticipate the day when we'll be home with you forever. Amen.
About the author — Howard Vanderwell
Rev. Howard Vanderwell was involved in pastoral ministry in the Christian Reformed Church for 40 years, serving as a pastor in Iowa, Illinois, and Michigan. Upon retirement in 2002, he began his work at Calvin Seminary, where he helped train the ministers of the next generation. Howard and his wife, Eleanor, were married for 57 years and had three married sons and ten grandchildren.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!