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Revelation 21:1–4 — “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”

John’s vision reaches its climax in the promise of a new heaven and new earth. The brokenness of the old order will pass away, and all things will be made new. Gratitude grows when we anticipate the day when sin, suffering, and death will be no more.

The new Jerusalem is described as a bride adorned for her husband. This imagery speaks of beauty, intimacy, and joy. Gratitude swells when we realize that God has prepared eternal fellowship for His people.

The voice from heaven declares the heart of the promise: “God himself shall be with them.” Christmas revealed Emmanuel, God with us, but eternity will reveal His presence in fullness. Gratitude longs for the day when faith becomes sight and fellowship is unbroken.

The promise of no more tears, death, sorrow, or pain comforts every grieving heart. Gratitude gives hope in suffering, knowing it is temporary and will one day be replaced with joy everlasting.

For pastors, this vision encourages faithful ministry. For the flock, it provides strength to endure trials. Gratitude anchors us in the certainty that God’s story ends in victory.

Christmas reminds us that God came to dwell with us. Revelation assures us that He will dwell with us forever. Gratitude unites these truths, giving us joy in the present and hope for the future.