Water is a powerful symbol throughout the Bible. It is absolutely essential for life and those who dwelt in the desert - like the Israelites - were keenly aware of how vital it was. It was also a metaphor for the life-giving Spirit of God. When living things draw on springs and hidden rivers, they thrive and grow; without it, they wither and die. So it is with God's Spirit. Human beings are dying of thirst and many don't even know it. The image from Revelation portrayed a future state in which a life-giving divine river would run through the heavenly Jerusalem, bringing life and fruitfulness. God will be present in a way that we cannot imagine; God will be our light. But we need not wait - we can begin to approach that river of life now as we walk the path of love, humility, holiness, and service.

The early Christians thought that Jesus would return in their own lifetimes and judge humanity. So much time has passed - most people do not expect this to happen anytime soon. But we never know when disaster or death will overtake us. Our lives can end in an instant by accident or by illness. The Lord urges us to be spiritually awake and alert. Do not become distracted or bogged down in things that do not matter. Use each day as a precious gift - spend it in love and service. Be ready to meet the Lord at all times and it will not matter when he returns. Every day is the day of the Lord's return. Give God thanks for the gift of this day.