Far too many times I find myself having said something before my mind was in gear. Reactions, responses, random thoughts, recriminations, and revenge all happen as my priorities, values, and principles come into complete focus. Sometimes the result is that I am far more transparent than I intend to be. On other occasions the opposite occurs. Yet the thing that bothers me more than anything else is when I miss opportunities to tell a more complete story.
I wonder what John would tell us today about the foundation of the city. True his words are pretty specific. The foundation was perfectly square, symmetrical in their strength and appearance. If the shape and design wasn’t enough, John goes on to describe just how we will see them when we are there.
“The foundations of the City walls were garnished with every precious gem imaginable: the first foundation jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst.” (Revelation 21.19, 20)
The missing description is found in other parts of John’s writings as well as many other authors in the Bible. The foundation of the City is what allows it to continue to stand strong, firm, and eternal. The simple answer is that the strength is Divinity. God is more than just power; God represents love in all its forms. Included in this package are crucial elements that combine to something evil can never penetrate – compassion, mercy, community, nurturing relationships, unselfishness, unconditional acceptance, forgiveness, understanding, patience, mentoring, wiliness to defend the weak, and hope. Each of these is integral to power; in fact they appropriately describe its foundation.
There is far too much sadness, pain, and longing around us to worry about our differences. Bring God’s given power to you to the table. Share it with those who are weak! Make a difference. Reflect and live. Now is the time to realize and experience the heaven that God offers each. We have the choice.
