Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
September 30, 2022
Read: Revelation 21:1-5
1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 I saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 I heard a loud voice from the throne say, “Look! God’s dwelling is here with humankind. He will dwell with them, and they will be his peoples. God himself will be with them as their God. 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” 5 Then the one seated on the throne said, “Look! I’m making all things new.” He also said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”
Good morning! God is making all things new.
I can’t believe that the end of September has arrived. This has been a very interesting month for me. Back in June when I was in the midst of completing my teaching career, moving into a new home, and beginning a new calling as a full-time pastor, I remember saying I’m looking forward to September when things will be calmer. Boy! Was I wrong? September has provided me with many blessings and opportunities to embrace my new life. At the same time, as with all changes, things have been hectic at times. When people ask me if I miss being a teacher, my first response is that I haven’t had time to notice. In all honesty, I believe that God has revealed to me a new life through which I am serving God in a new way.
As I read this morning’s passage, I feel my heart being warmed by the grace given to me by our loving God. God is constantly making all things new as the old ways die and fade away. Nowhere is there better evidence as to this but in nature. We have entered into the season of fall when the leaves of many trees transition from luscious green to beautiful colors. We know that this signals the end of the growing season, but not the end of life. The stark empty branches of winter will come and then we will see the first signs of new life as the leaves begin to form once again.
Just as the ocean ebbs and flows, we too go through many cycles in our lifetimes. With each downward turn, we grow as we learn to cast away those things which are holding us down. Whatever troubles we have, we must embrace the hope of a new day dawning. God is with us always. God sent Jesus to light our paths so that we can always find our way. When we accept Christ, the Holy Spirit begins to work within us to transform and strengthen us so that we may emerge joyfully as we begin a new life.
Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. We are Your children and we are needy. We need love, compassion, and grace which You unconditionally provide for us. May we embrace the new life to which we are committed. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: I will trust God’s power to make all things new.
God makes all things new! Pastor Liz
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