He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. Revelation 21:4
The Iteri tribe in Papua New Guinea has been evangelized by missionaries, and many have trusted Christ. But life remains challenging; danger often looms in the form of mosquitos that carry malaria, infections that spread without adequate medicines, or hostility from tribe members who reject the Christian faith. When Iteri Christians talk about Jesus, they often express deep longing to be with Him in heaven. Life is not easy in the jungle, and they look forward eagerly to the time when they will dwell with God.
As we conclude this month’s study on biblical lament and comfort, these Iteri Christians reminds us of a great truth: we can lament our sorrows and have comfort amid difficulties because ultimately we know the end of the story. We know that one day God will undo the curse and we will see His face (see Rev. 22:3–4).
The description of this glorious future begins in Revelation 21 with the new heaven and new earth. Its physical beauty is breathtaking and beyond our human comprehension. But the best part is the promise that God will be there with us: “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God” (v. 3).
Our key verse promises an end to sorrows and everlasting comfort from the hand of God. In the Garden of Eden, humanity chose sin and rebellion against God, and we have suffered the consequences of that fall ever since. But God will make all things right. The sovereign, powerful God will redeem and restore His beloved creation and touch us tenderly, wiping away every tear. Every sorrow will be put away, dealt with for eternity by the hand of God. What a glorious end to the story!
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