Revelation 22:1-5
Honestly, I’ve not been a big fan of the Revelation of St. John. While it is filled with hundreds of allusions to the Old Testament, it can be difficult to decipher any personal meaning and message. This reading is an exception.
Our assigned text for today offers a vision of the eternal hope that awaits those who trust in God—a new reality where pain and brokenness are no more, replaced by perfect restoration. These verses invite us to step into the imagery of the river of life, the tree of life, and the light of God's presence, which speak to the fullness of life in communion with Him.
Revelation 22:1-5 (NIV) “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.”
The passage opens with a scene of the river of life, "clear as crystal," flowing from the throne of God and the Lamb. This river is a symbol of refreshment and a source of eternal life. It reminds us of Jesus’ promise in John 7:38: "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them." This living water represents a soul delighted in God, where our deepest thirsts are quenched forever.
The tree of life, bearing fruit every month and with leaves for the healing of the nations, is a powerful symbol of abundance and restoration. In Eden, the tree of life was lost due to humanity's sin, but here it is restored, open and accessible to all who dwell with God. It speaks to the end of division and suffering; God’s healing and unity will end all strife. This imagery reassures us that God’s redemptive work is complete and eternal.
Perhaps the most beautiful promise is found in the declaration that there will no longer be any curse and that God's servants will see His face. This echoes humanity's longing throughout Scripture—to dwell with God in a perfect relationship, untainted by sin. The glory of His presence will illuminate everything, removing all literal and spiritual darkness.
Meditate on these verses, which invite us to reflect on the faithfulness of God’s promises. In times of doubt or difficulty, they serve as a reminder of the end of the story—one written by a loving Creator who ensures that His children will live in joy, peace, and eternal communion with Him. This vision is not merely about a distant future but a present hope that shapes how we live today: as people of light, reflecting God’s glory and sharing His love with the world.
Questions for Reflection:
- What deep desire is awakened as you meditate on this reading?
- What pictures and images of heaven give you the most comfort and solace?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, use this passage to fill us with hope and anticipation, spurring us to live with faith and purpose as we await the day when all things will be made new. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen!
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