Recorded MP3 audio meditations: downloads and audio streams, written reflections and contemplative resources by Dorinda Miller

Written Reflections

Lent

While there are many approaches to observing Lent and many topics which are considered during this season, this series takes a different route. It takes three topics for each of the letters of the word Lent and looks at: love, life, learn, everywhere, explain, expectations, now, new, nations, time, tenacity and treasure.

Lent 8. New

As we journey through this season of Lent considering who we are, where we are, how we are, and seeking to deepen and refine our faith and hope and trust in God, let us not lose sight of our ultimate destination, in the busyness of our daily lives and in the ups and downs of life.

In his letter to the Philippians Paul encourages us forget what is behind us and to strain towards what lies ahead of us.  ‘I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus.’ Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV).

Read the passage from Revelation below, slowly a couple of times.

‘Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed a way and there was no longer any sea.  I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them.  They will be his people and God himself will be with them and be their God.  He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”  He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!”’ Revelation 21:1-5 (NIV)

  • Now picture this scene in your imagination.
  • See the new heaven and earth.  Observe what they look like.  Marvel at these new creations.
  • Think about what it will be like for God to live with men.  For there to be, no more death, or crying or pain.
  • You may like to draw or paint the scene that you have just pictured.  If so, take your time and allow your creative skills to flow.
  • Then reflect on the verse “I am making everything new”
  • Finally, spent a few minutes in praise and thanksgiving to God.

Written by Dorinda Miller; © D Miller 2014. For full credits please see the site credits page

Next Reflection:

9. Nations