It’s what I long for—the day that Jesus makes all things new. At the moment I’m dealing with a very old problem, a problem that has its roots more than 20 years ago—and it’s just come back up again. And it tempts me to give up. My mind wonders, why can’t I ever catch a break? Why does this thing have to come up after all these years and endanger everything I’ve worked so hard for?
You probably have things like this in your life as well—family secrets, conflicts with your spouse or parents, illnesses of the body or mind that got their start years ago when they seemed like nothing important. But now you are suffering, and afraid of the future. What will happen to me as a result of this evil? Will God still be there for me, if the worst happens?
He will. He already has been there for us—because the One who is seated on the throne in heaven is the One who came down to earth to hang on a cross and carry our griefs and to take our death on Himself. Isaiah the prophet even calls Him the “Man of Sorrows,” because of how deeply He has joined Himself to us in our suffering. And none of it is enough to make Him leave us. He looks at us in our sin and shame and sickness and grief, and He still loves us. And He has promised to bring us with Him out of this death, and into the light and joy of His own resurrection.
WE PRAY: Lord Jesus, I need You. Make me new, and help me where You see I need it most. Amen.
This Daily Devotion was written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Reflection Questions:
1. What is your favorite bit in this description of God’s kingdom?
2. Why do you think the Bible describes God’s kingdom by telling us all the things that will not be there?
3. What is one area of your life you would dearly love to have God make new?