"You're Invited"

Scripture Passage

Revelation 19:1-22:21

Scripture Focus

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life. (Revelation 22:17 NLT)

Observation

I confess once more that I shrink back from the hard and fast declarations many seem willing to make about the apocalyptic visions of Revelation. The details perplex me. But the broad portrait is clear enough for anyone to comprehend.

One thing Revelation promises is justice. The outpouring of wrath recorded in Revelation is not the uncontrolled explosion of an angry god having a really bad day. Rather, it is the measured action of a righteous God who always acts justly. Even after describing quite horrifying plagues, the Scriptures make this clear declaration—“His judgments are true and just” (Revelation 19:2 NLT).

Another priority for Revelation is offering some description of the promised "new heaven and…new earth" (Revelation 21:1 NTL). John’s challenge here was significant—how do you describe what can hardly even be imagined? The heavenly vision continues to stretch beyond the boundaries of human language. The message, however, is clear: The abode of the people of God for all eternity will be remarkable in its beauty and its righteousness.

The closing words of Revelation address a final priority—invitation.

The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life (Revelation 22:17 NLT).

Could the heart of God be any clearer…any more plain? “He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent” (2 Peter 3:9 NLT). "Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink—even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk—it's all free!” (Isaiah 55:1 NLT) “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink” (Jesus—John 7:37-38 NLT).

What a way to close Holy Writ! What an expression of the heart of God! Could there be sweeter words for a world destined for painful justice apart from God’s grace? How I pray that any who read these words would embrace God’s gracious offer of life eternal!

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