Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever. (Revelation 22:1-2 NIV)
Some of the language reflects the Garden of Eden – yet this is in a holy and awesome city. This city is filled with God’s people from the nations who have made their robes white in the blood of the Lamb. The future for all who trust and follow Jesus is assured.
But what about the here and now? John’s audience are facing testing times. Those who refuse to declare allegiance to Caesar as Lord are facing discrimination, confiscation of property, beatings, arrest, imprisonment, or even death.
They wonder how long it will be until Jesus comes to bring them into his wonderful future. They struggle to make sense of their pain. They wonder how on earth they would endure.
They endured by remembering the deeds and promises of Jesus. Three times in the closing chapter of Revelation, Jesus promises: “I am coming soon!”
Most people wonder about the time frame – what does “soon” mean in the light of eternity? Perhaps a better question to ponder is this: “Are you ready to meet Jesus face to face?” When you think of that, does it fill you with joyful anticipation – or something else?
This Sunday – as we finish off our series: The Kingdom, the Power and the Glory – we will press into the promises of Jesus that sustain us in our struggles; and remind us that we have a hope and a future with him. Come and share the good things of God this Sunday!
Pr Rolly Stahl
Bible Reading: Revelation 22:1-5, 12-17, 20-21
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au
Prayer Request
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.
Good Shepherd Ladies Fellowship Meeting
Tuesday 4th June at 1pm. Pastor Rolly will lead Bible study.
ANNUAL FUNDRAISING LUNCHEON 2nd July at 12 noon. A celebration of 50 years of the fellowship. A delicious three course meal with glass of wine will be offered to guests. Special guest speaker Simone Krause from Lutheran World Service. Venue: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Hall $20ph limited numbers. RSVP 10th June to Ragna ph 7325 8016 or Dorothy 0403 967 943.
Thank you from the Family Hub
Again a great team effort:
• your very generous support with goods donated both food and blankets.
• the Transform Youth who sorted the donations which made it much easier and quicker for the Family Hub to store the donations.
• the 5 volunteers who helped transport the goods to the Family Hub.
Kathlene continues to be amazed at the generosity of the congregation. By the time you read this Kathlene said all the blankets would have been distributed and being put to good use.
From the Office
Replacement of Cafe Floor
Due to issues with the cafe flooring, which in future would be expensive for the congregation to rectify, the cafe flooring will be replaced at no cost to the congregation. This will occur between the 3rd and 12th of July. During this time access to the hall and worship centre via the cafe will not be possible. The kitchen can be utilised by access through the hall.
“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence with eternal pleasures at your right hand."
Psalm 16:11
