Longing for Perfect Resonance

Scripture Reading — Revelation 22:1-7

The leaves of the tree [of life] are for the healing of the nations.
— Revelation 22:2

Several colleagues and I were on a call with church leaders from a West African nation where Christians have been facing increased hostility and violence. We wanted to connect and hear how they were doing, and we wanted to ask how we might pray for and support them.

Yet the conversation proved difficult. Technical problems disrupted the connection again and again, and it took considerable time and effort just to share a few meaningful moments together.

For many Christians around the world, this kind of disruption is a daily reality. We all long for experiences of spiritual and emotional resonance— times when we can connect deeply with God and with one another. But in places marked by political and religious persecution, natural disasters, or war, such a connection can be fragile and hard won.

St. Augustine wrote that “our hearts are restless until they find rest in God.” Until Jesus returns, there will always be some measure of restlessness and dissonance in our lives and in the world around us.

For this reason we continue to pray with longing for the day when Christ will make all things right and bring healing to the nations. Until that day arrives, it is vital that we stand with our suffering brothers and sisters, remembering them in prayer and supporting them in whatever ways we can.

Dear Jesus, we read of the river of life and the healing of the nations, and our hearts ache for the day when you will return. Come quickly, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Written by: Kevin DeRaaf