During its long history, the city of Jerusalem has been destroyed at least twice, besieged 23 times, attacked 52 times, and captured and recaptured 44 times. The city is surrounded by a wall and divided into four quarters: Jewish, Armenian, Christian, and Muslim. Inside the walls is the Western Wall, which is holy to the Jews and visited by millions of worshippers, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount.

Christianity reveres Jerusalem for its Old Testament history, and also for its significance in the life of Jesus.

If you have ever visited old Jerusalem and walked where Jesus walked and preached, you may have experienced powerful emotions arising from within, and tears streaming down your face at the memory of Jesus' life, crucifixion, and resurrection. Today, the city is still in turmoil. The ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict over Jerusalem creates unrest and havoc, plaguing their streets, and people all around the world wonder if there ever will be peace.

Psalm 122:6 – Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. (NLT)

Not only is Israel experiencing chaos and disorder, but other parts of the world as well. But we have a new world to look forward to, a New Jerusalem where there is no sickness or crying.

Revelation 21:2 – And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. (NLT)

The New Jerusalem, which is also called the holy city, the city of God, the celestial city, and the heavenly Jerusalem, is "heaven on earth" which one day — known only to God — will come to us.

Revelation 21:4 – And He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away. (NASB)

We have hope, a new city, and our God among us for all eternity to look forward to. Let us pray for God's kingdom to arise within each and every one of us.

Prayer: God of peace and mystery, we pray for peace in Jerusalem, and we pray for Your kingdom to arise within each and every one of us. Give us the strength and courage to share this good news of the New Jerusalem coming amongst us. Amen.

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About the author:

Rosemary Hagedorn <rosyhagedorn@gmail.com>
Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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