Thursday, April 10, 2014
Revelation 22:1-3 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him.
PARADISE OF PARADISES
If you took a trip into the uppermost part of Michigan (the "U. P."), driving an hour and half north of the Mackinac Bridge, you'd arrive at a little city on the shores of Lake Superior named Paradise. I've never been to Paradise, Michigan, but I'm thinking it must be a beautiful spot. I understand it features miles of gorgeous beaches and clear-running rivers. There are acres upon acres of giant pines mixed with maple, poplar, tamarack, and birch that create a splendor of enchanting color in October that people come miles to see. The second largest state park in Michigan -- a "sight for sore eyes" so it's said (Tahquamenon Falls) -- is nearby. It's understandable why the chamber of commerce for this little seaside town has taken as its motto: "Regardless of the season, wouldn't you rather be in Paradise?"
There are probably locations you've visited which have impressed you for their beauty. A favorite vacation spot in the mountains. An out-of-the-way campsite or fishing hole. A place up high by a lake with a view where you can take in a breath-taking sunset. As enjoyable as these places are to visit, there's a place that far exceeds them in beauty. John describes it in Revelation using vivid picture-language to give encouragement to us in our faith-lives as Christians. He supplies us with a "sneak-peek" into the unsurpassed splendor of the Paradise of all paradises we will not just visit for a little while but reside in forever.
May this happy certainty which Jesus has given you, through His Savior-work in your behalf, provide you with joy and strength to live for Him and to serve Him in love until you cross the bridge into Paradise.
