And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. Revelation 22:5
The last chapter of the book of Revelation has been called, by some, a summary of the New Testament. The things revealed in the book to John are difficult to study but the theme of God’s people being victorious reigns throughout the text. In the final chapter, we can easily see a wonderful text of instruction and encouragement as we too sojourn here on earth as we travel toward Heaven (Hebrews 11:13-16).
We are given another glimpse or description of Heaven (Rev 22 1-5). It is so difficult to even fathom a place of such perfection for us. We are assured throughout the Bible that the “home of the soul” awaits the faithful (2 Tim 4:6-8), a dwelling prepared by the Lord (John 14:1-3). This home is to be desired because of who will be there and how it will be when we are there. However, it is worth noting, we should desire Heaven to avoid the alternative which is Hell. I recently heard a quote along these lines. “Earth is as close to Hell as the faithful will experience, and Earth is as close to Heaven as the sinful will ever know.” It was unclear who said this originally but what a profound statement! Those who chose to be lost better enjoy whatever it is that brings pleasure now because it will not get better moving forward.
Our text reminds us there will be no more curse (Rev 22:3). The curse and sting of sin is nearly as old as mankind (Gen 3). In Heaven, all those things that bring pain will be gone. Revelation 21:4 states, “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away”.
We will be there engaged in worship (Rev 22:3) and live in the glory of the light of God while reigning forever (Rev 22:5). I truly struggle sometimes grasping the greatness of Heaven and the eternal nature of the soul. I hope with time and study I will have a greater understanding. Let all of us desire to live faithfully now (Rev 2:10) so we can experience and come to know the wonders of Heaven together. Rev 14:13 reminds us, “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them”.
By Jason Barger