Revelation 21:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 (NRSV)
Read Revelation 21:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 on biblegateway.com
Verse 12It has a great, high wall with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates are inscribed the names of the twelve tribes of the Israelites; Verse 13on the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates. Verse 14And the wall of the city has twelve foundations, and on them are the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. Verse 16The city lies foursquare, its length the same as its width; and he measured the city with his rod, fifteen hundred miles; its length and width and height are equal. Verse 17He also measured its wall, one hundred forty-four cubits by human measurement, which the angel was using. Verse 20the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. Verse 21And the twelve gates are twelve pearls, each of the gates is a single pearl, and the street of the city is pure gold, transparent as glass.
Devotion
Saint John’s valedictory word for his church makes the heart want to sing. For twenty centuries, whatever the external circumstances, God’s people have been given courage and lifted by this glorious word of hope and faith.
Jesus is the beginning and the end, the summation of our story and history. No middle ground here, no waffling or politically correct timidity. Rather, the boldest and most audacious declaration of all time. And it’s both what we need and yearn to hear. While earthly powers posture and parade across the world’s stage momentarily, the true author of life claims the whole creation. As the air is filled with political smoke, John brings clarity and focus to the most clouded soul: Jesus is Lord of all. Take hold of that and hang on for the ride of your life.
How marvelous that when we start our mealtimes, we pray this cosmic prayer: “Come, Lord Jesus.” Let the feast begin anew in your life.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, redeemer of the world, come quickly and fill us with the food that satisfies forever. Give us the strength and vision to carry that meal to just the right places today. Fill us with your love and a yearning for your return. In your blessed name we pray, Amen.