“Perfected in love” (1 Jn.4:18)
Lord Jesus, it’s only one part of one verse, but it perfectly sums up what thrills me the most about our coming life in the new heaven and new earth. Will enjoy perfect everything, but especially perfect relationships. Hallelujah, we will be “perfected in love.”
Finally and fully, we will love each other the way you love us. But first, foremost, and forever, Jesus, we will love you with everything we have and are. When we see you, we will be made like you (1 John 3:2); and when that happens, everything else relationally will “fall into place.”
All racism, prejudice, and tribalism will be eradicated—replaced with love, honor, and the richest community imaginable. There won’t be any insiders or outsiders, “pecking order” or ordering one another around. It will be impossible for us to break promises or break each other’s hearts ever again. We will never have to apologize, forgive, and reconcile with anyone about anything. Jesus, we believe, help our unbelief.
The United Nations will be a reality, not a building—no more power grabbing, just towel grabbing to wash each other’s feet. Every evidence of evil, sin, and death will be replaced with all things new, beautiful, and stunning.
Until then, Jesus, grant us good grief and quick repentances when we love poorly, (which is daily). Fill us with the riches of the grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, again and again. This life is too short for over-expecting from mere people, unbelieving the Gospel, and way under-adoring you, Jesus. So Very Amen.