Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt…
and the Lord was with Joseph,
he was a successful man. (Genesis 39:1-2)
Andrew of Caesarea, a bishop in the early seventh century, gave the church one of its oldest commentaries on the Book of Revelation. He saw behind all its images a promise too deep for words. Speaking of the life to come, he wrote:
“Since there are many blessings in the coming age, which surpass every understanding, the participation in them is indicated through various terms… sometimes they are called ‘paradise’ on account of the everlasting banquet of good things; sometimes they are called ‘the bosom of Abraham’ and ‘marriage’ because of the endless joy and the perfect and inexpressible union of God with his servants.”
Centuries before him, the apostle Paul spoke of being caught up to the third heaven. He said he heard things that no one is allowed to tell. Things too wonderful to put into words. A glimpse of glory that changed him forever.
This is what awaits us.
We’re not just heading for a better place. We’re heading into the joy of God. A joy that cannot be measured or imagined.
You may be tired. You may be walking through sorrow or carrying grief. But this is not the end of your story.
Take heart. Your future is sure. And it will be more amazing and beautiful than words could ever say.