Read: 2 Peter 3:8-18
We are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. (v. 13)
Unfortunately we don’t have to look very hard to find evidence of unrighteousness around us. From ordinary unkindness all the way to serious crime, and even global injustice, we can’t avoid unrighteousness in our world or even in ourselves.
But when Jesus Christ comes again, Christians look forward to a new heaven and a new earth where unrighteousness will have no place. The apostle Peter, a leader in the first century church, writes that according to God’s promise “we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (v. 13). That is a wonderful promise, for which it is sometimes difficult to wait. But in the new heavens and new earth there will be no bullying or financial scams, no sports betting scandals. There will be no crime, no war. It is hard to imagine, but wonderful to anticipate!
Until that day when we live in the new heaven and new earth, we who are followers of Jesus can give those around us a small taste of future righteousness. How? By living honest lives today, standing up for what is right, opposing evil and quickly confessing our sins when we find unrighteousness in our own thoughts, words and actions. May our struggling pursuit of righteousness give us a joyful anticipation of life in the new heaven and new earth.
As you pray, confess the sin and unrighteousness in your life and rejoice in God’s forgiveness.
Rich Bawinkel is a retired pastor who has served churches in the Reformed Church in America and the Kingdom Network. He is married to Anne and serves as a musician in their local church, as the administrator of the Kingdom Network, and on the Words of Hope Board of Directors.
