Sixth Sunday of Easter

River of Life

We need to understand that the church is already part of the new heaven and earth God will bring to completion at the end of time. We are given a glimpse of a divine construction site. The new creation of Revelation brings the first creation to its perfection, as God intended. This is also the image of a city where human nature can find its own perfection, a place of consummation for the purposes that God created us for. The New Jerusalem is flooded with light so that no sun, moon, or lamps are necessary. A river flows from the throne at its center, and on its banks stands the tree of life, whose fruit is never out of season. The city is a shining light for all nations, which stream to her gates and lavish the city with honor.