There is a strange and sad scene at the end when all those who had placed all hope in this world watch as the smoke rises after destruction, "Alas, alas, for the great city that was clothed in fine linen, in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold, with jewels, and with pearls! For in a single hour all this wealth has been laid waste" (Revelation 18:16-17). The great city was Babylon, representing the commerce and culture of this world, and the Bible calls her "the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality" (Revelation 19:2). She is rightly destroyed, for none is less welcome at a wedding than a prostitute, and it is time now for the marriage supper of the Lamb.
The Lamb is Jesus Christ, and his bride is the church. She has purchased her gown, but rather than a gaudy purple and scarlet, her fine linen is bright and pure, "for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints" (Revelation 19:8). The world began with a wedding, "a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24). God called it very good. At the end of history, there is a new beginning and another wedding, and it is even better and forever.
Daily Prayer
My God Eternal, You have given me a glimpse of the future and it fills me with anticipation - a world pure and good, filled with Your love and holiness. I live now in preparation for an everlasting Kingdom with Your Son on the throne reigning in righteousness.
May my life reflect now what is to come, displaying the goodness and godliness of eternity with You, and may it attract others to desire You.
Amen
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