Radiance

Read: Revelation 21:22-27

The nations will walk in its light, and the kings of the world will enter the city in all their glory. . . . And all the nations will bring their glory and honor into the city. Revelation 21:24, 26

IN WORD

The glory of God and the lamp of the Lamb (Revelation 21:23) are all the light the world will ever need. When Revelation speaks of the light of the new creation, this is what it’s talking about: the radiance of God in Christ. No sun, stars, or moon will be needed. There will be no dark corners in the new Jerusalem, no shadowy alleyways or secret chambers of mischief. There will be no need; corruption will not be allowed into the city. Ever.

What will be brought to the city, however, is the glory and honor of all nations. All of the striving for wealth and power and glory that human governments and kings have sought—at great expense to the human race—will belong to the Savior who humbly forsook the form of deity in this world. While humanity tried to climb its way up, Jesus lowered Himself down. And in the end, the glory and honor of nations will be His. No crown, no treasure, no prestige, no accomplishment will be boasted in by human pride. All that we sought, He’ll have. And He’ll shine His glory on all who love Him.

That’s reason number one for not getting caught up in the world’s ambitions—which won’t achieve anything worthwhile and won’t last. All the radiance of creation shines from a surprising lamp that faithless eyes cannot see: the Lamb of God who humbled Himself to the point of death. Whatever splendor, glory, or treasure you’ve sought, you won’t find it unless you find it in Jesus.

IN DEED

As this year comes to a close, measure your goals and plans. What are your ambitions? Do they fit better with the glory of the world or the glory of the Lamb? In other words, what light do you seek? Make sure every dream you have this year comes under the glow of the glory of the Kingdom of God.

ADDITIONAL READING: Isaiah 60:3-5

[God] has an inexhaustible enthusiasm for the fame of His name among the nations.

JOHN PIPER