Jesus Rules / We Live

A few weeks ago, Joe, our Saturday blog writer, asked me to write for him this day. I didn't recognize the significance of February 24th at that time. This is my baby brother's birthday. He has been with Jesus for 9 years now. It is also the 7th anniversary of my husband's memorial service. He, too, is with Jesus.

I read the selected text for today and knew God was in these details. 

My brother and my husband had lots in common. They were both men with painful childhoods that carried over into their adult life. They both spent years running; my brother by globetrotting, and my husband by carrying the pain of war. They were adults when they came to a face to face meeting with Jesus. I don't know their respective stories of the moment when it all changed, but I was on the sidelines praying and celebrating.

"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" (Revelation 22:1) The water of life is a symbol of eternal life. 

"On each side of the river stood the tree of life." (Revelation 22:2) The tree of life is like the tree in the Garden of Eden. 

I am thankful someone took the time to share the Gospel with these two men. They are both able to soar on wings like eagles (Isaiah 40:31). I am equally thankful that someone did the same for me and then took the time to develop this faith, to walk alongside me and to correct, comfort, and commend me when appropriate - that is called Discipleship.

Revelation 22:1-5