“He will wipe every tear out of their eyes. There won’t be any more death, mourning, crying, or pain—for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making all things new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’” Rev. 21:4–5
Dear Jesus, I’ve never longed for the day of “no more death” more so than today. Like my friends, I remain rattled by the loss of so many lives in the Texas flooding—and more rain is arriving soon. Have mercy, Lord. Your death was the death of death, and your return will bring the fullness of eternal life and a world of perpetual newness. Hasten that glorious Day.
Indeed, Jesus, you are presently making all things new—though death often seems to be winning. But your resurrection is the guarantee and first-fruits of a whole new order—the New Creation world of perfect, beautiful everything. Every form of demise, decay, and death will be gone forever.
No more picking out caskets for loved ones or compost piles of rotting anything. No more death of innocence, dreams, or beloved pets. Never again will hydrangeas turn from lush lavender to lifeless brown. No more diseased roses or black mold growing in our walls. No more killing by guns, words, or looks. No more foul smells—only the aroma of grace everywhere.
Jesus, you will wipe our salty-bottled-tears out of our eyes—AND redeem the pain, trauma, and “Why, Lord’s?” behind every tear. Because of your empty tomb, occupied throne, and soon return—take us with you into the valley of the shadow of death as those who love well, lament with friends, and live with hope. Thank you, Jesus, and So Very Amen