Take Heart, Weary Pilgrim—Hope Springs Eternal!

So, what’s new with you?

A new year has just begun. We have a new president, as well as other major government officials. There is a new spirit in the country. You may have some new toys, clothes, and other items you received for the holidays. You may also have a few new wrinkles or pounds, but we’ll put them aside for now.

Perhaps you have new children or grandchildren; a new puppy or kitten; a new home; a new car; or a new job. New is good (unless you’re an antique collector. It’s funny when we get excited about finding a new antique or new artifact).

When someone undergoes a vital operation or purchases an amazing new gadget from a television ad, they may say, “It changed my life” or “I’ve gotten a new lease on life.”

In a world-weary voice, King Solomon said, “[T]here is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). He recognized that the excitement of newness soon wears off and we’re back to the same ol’ same ol’. Is there relief from the endless cycle of life, this roller coaster of existence? Who doesn’t want a new body? A new mind? A new lease on life? An impregnable safe?

So, what’s gonna be new with you?

Spring is a time of renewal with new plants, animal babies, fresh water, and crisp produce. We know from harsh experience that all things eventually perish, even our bodies. Weary pilgrim, there is hope! “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16)!

The corner will turn, says the Lord, “For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind” (Isaiah 65:17). A new heavens and earth will require a new population—believers in Jesus Christ. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). “When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory’” (1 Corinthians 15:54). This is not a new lease on life—this is a lifetime contract!

The apostle Peter confirmed that hope centuries after it was first promised: “But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). For weary saints who are longing to see an end to the lies and deceptions of the world, in the eternal spring, “as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations” (Isaiah 61:11).

There will be the tree of life; the water of life clear as crystal, and new friends and family who will be perfect. New heavens and earth to explore. Things won’t rust, corrupt, get lost or stolen, or need to be insured or fixed. No weather concerns, no elections.

“‘He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.’ And he who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’ Also he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true’” (Revelation 21:4–5).

To make a reservation for the new heavens and earth, simply and sincerely accept Jesus’ invitation: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

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