In keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth,
where righteousness dwells. 2 Peter 3:13
It is not to angels that he has subjected the world to come, about which we are speaking. Heb. 2:5
Heavenly Father, thank you for the heart-liberating and hope-fueling truth of these passages. There is “a world to come” which will transform this broken world. The Garden of Eden was just a preview of coming attractions—a hint and whisper of greater things you have planned for us.
Providence, not happenstance, rules. Beauty, not brokenness, will prevail. This is awesome news, as we begin a new week, still very much in a “viral” storyline.
Father, we are so glad your name is Redeemer and Restorer—a God who is rich in mercy—abounding in grace and Fatherly sovereignty. You sent Jesus to be our substitute and Savior, our perfect righteousness and our perpetual Advocate, our reigning King and returning Lord. Thank you!
On the glorious Day when Jesus returns, the earth will be filled with your presence, beauty, and love. Evil, defeated by Jesus’ cross, will be fully and forever eradicated. We. Cannot. Wait.
Indeed, things are not as they appear to the natural eye right now. You are in absolute control, and you love us more than we can possibly imagine. We’re not waiting for “pie in the sky,” but for Jesus on the earth. Faith, not fear; and hope, not hype, should fill our hearts. May missional living and kingdom generosity mark our lifestyle, smack-dab-in-the-middle of this pandemic.
Father, thank you for making us characters in and carriers of your great Story of healing and renewal. We are in Christ and grace-enveloped, and that trumps everything else. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ triumphant and trustworthy name.