The Story Chapter 31 Introduction

How does one describe heaven and eternity? How does one even come close to being able to put words unto that which is beyond words? How do we describe the One who has created us and the proximity of being with that Creator?

John tries. He tries to put words into place so that we can understand. Even with the words there is much mystery. Perhaps a good analogy is when we as humans were trying to picture the moon and had not yet begun the space program. There were many theories, but nothing like the real thing until we had sent humans and robots there to investigate.

Angel armies; The heavenly throne which is also described in Isaiah 6; The lamb who is worthy to break the seal; The silence in heaven; The new heaven and earth. Ultimately this is eternity where we are with our Creator forever.

The beauty of this new heaven and earth is that it is the exact opposite of where we began. We began in the Garden of Eden and The Fall–this is the New Jerusalem, the new garden. This is the place where there are no more tears and there is no more sadness. Why would that be? Here one will be in the presence of the Creator and the evil one will not be present. We hear the words of our Creator in saying, “I am making all things new!” God wins!

This is the place of the heavenly banquet. When we share in the Lord’s Supper here on earth we are not only remembering what Jesus has done, but we are also remembering the future–we remember the banquet to come where all who are in relationship with Jesus are invited.

As you read this last chapter of The Story this week, what strikes you most of this place of eternity? What is the biggest surprise? How will reading the end of The Story effect you as you live out the middle of The Story, knowing that you are a part of God’s bigger story?

Chris Tomlin’s song Angel Armies might also speak to you as you read this last chapter.