I Make All Things New

The one who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Then he said, “Write these words down, for they are trustworthy and true” (Rev. 21:5).

I love the season of autumn. The nights are getting cool – perfect for someone like me who likes to sleep with the windows open. We see migrating birds in the morning (yes, even here in California!). The streets of my parents’ neighborhood are lined with liquid amber trees, and the leaves are starting to turn. Soon, there will be a riot of color. Nature is performing her “final act” before the cold sleep of winter. We know from past experience that when spring comes, signs of new life will appear everywhere.

The same is true when we are facing difficulties in our lives. We know from past experience that God is always right there with us, and that He will bring about a new springtime from the winter of our difficulties. Fear not, I am with you: be not dismayed; I am your God. I will strengthen you, and help you, and uphold you with my right hand of justice (Is. 41:10). And if we hold on to Him and trust in His promises, we will emerge all the stronger in our faith for the experience.

I was reminded of this last night when I went to see my Dad at the hospital. For the two weeks he’s been there, he hasn’t eaten much at all, and of course, hasn’t had the energy to do the physical therapy that is so critical to his recovery. I’ve had a veritable hoard of prayer warriors storming heaven on his behalf, believing that in God’s good time, He would “do something.” When I arrived in Dad’s new room last night (he was moved to the rehab floor yesterday), he was sitting up and in much better spirits. When they brought his dinner in, he ate most of it – more in one meal than I’ve seen him eat in the entire time he’s been there. He also said that he’d made one round of the halls with the physical therapists earlier in the day, and that he would start on a three-times-a-day schedule today.

Wow and Hallelujah! God is indeed making all things new in this corner of His creation!

Prayer Request: For all those who find waiting on God’s time difficult.

Prayer: O Lord, our God, we thank You for being with us through all the joys and difficulties of life. When the tough times come, help us to remember that You are with us, and that we can grasp Your mighty hand. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.