and the Eden we long for
Yesterday, Kathy and I made a day trip out to Steveson. We walked at Garry Point, enjoying the coastal views (Salish Sea, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and part of the Fraser River). It was fascinating watching the various marine craft come and go. The highlight, though, was the otters.
We enjoyed a meal of fish and chips at #pajo’s on the boardwalk. Afterward, as we strolled near Fisherman’s Wharf, we spotted three otters. At first, they were simply swimming and playing, but they proceeded to climb up onto a far end of the dock within sight of us. They were hilarious to watch as they played and explored some of the watercraft. They kept us amused for 5-10 minutes before they disappeared from our sight. They were close enough to see well, but not close enough to photograph, clearly on my phone, so today’s image is courtesy of Kendra Young on Unsplash.
I always enjoy watching animals at play, and when I do, I often think of the Garden of Eden. The Garden was deemed “very good” by God, and no sin had entered. I know many species of animals and birds can differentiate
between humans, becoming trusting and often very friendly with them. I’m certain the animals played freely, and that Adam and Eve were free to join in.
While Eden is, alas, no more. A heavenly paradise awaits those who belong to Christ. It’s a place that defies description, but I am certain it will be everything Eden was and more.
John the Revelator attempted to describe what he saw in the Revelation; the Holy Spirit inspired him to write. Here’s a taste of what He said.
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:1-5 ESV
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. Revelation 22:1-4 ESV
I can’t begin to imagine it. To be honest, I can’t even really picture the fullness of what the Garden of Eden was like, and it foreshadowed what will come. Still, I can hardly wait to see it.
I have my Holy Spirit-sealed ticket to Paradise. Do you have yours?
If you haven’t trusted Jesus by faith yet, do it today.
Kevin
SUMMARY
Watching three playful otters explore the docks in Steveston reminded me of Eden’s innocence, when animals and humans lived in unbroken harmony. The Garden of Eden is gone now, but through Christ, an even greater paradise awaits those who trust Him
TAKEAWAY
I watched three otters play and explore the docks at Steveston, and it reminded me of the untouched harmony of Eden
I believe the animals in Eden trusted humans completely, free enough that Adam and Eve could have joined right in their play
Revelation 21–22 shows me the paradise to come, greater than Eden ever was, where God dwells with His people forever and wipes away every tear
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