Scripture for Today: Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

This is a special week as it ushers in Spring. For some colder climates, its coming is not so obvious. But one of the first signs of Spring is this unassuming butterfly. It is not so eye catching as other butterflies, but it has the distinction of being the first! The Mourning Cloak butterfly will sometimes come early, heralding the fact that Spring is just around the corner. Its unusual name is due to the resemblance of its deep brown wings to the color and texture of cloth worn by those in mourning.

Today’s verse describes a place where there will be no more mourning, death, crying or pain. What an incredible thought! But even more amazing is that the Lord Himself will personally wipe away every tear from our eyes! He will turn mourning into gladness. (Jer. 31:13) The old order of things will pass away on this new heaven and new earth. And God will will dwell there among us. What used to be the Kingdom of God in hearts will one day be a literal Kingdom where He will reign.

I love the newness of Spring and the hope it represents. But one day, I will be living in a Kingdom where everything is not only new but eternally so! Death and dying will have no place. Reunions will be so sweet and there will no longer be the need for goodbyes. Struggle, pain and suffering will be part of the old order and no longer an issue. This is not wishful thinking but certainty in God’s promise. What is today my hope will one day be seen and realized!

Thank you Lord for giving me hope.