Day 2 – Journal
WEEK 1
This week, we are focusing on Revelation 21:1-10, what some describe as the Holy Wedding Day, when God will come and make all things new!
Read the passage and return to it as needed for your daily quiet time.
This Week's Passage: Revelation 21:1-10
Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “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. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain,for the old order of things has passed away.” 5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without costfrom the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur.This is the second death.” 9 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride,the wife of the Lamb.” 10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God.
Journal
Many of us may think of journaling as merely a way to document our everyday experiences. While that’s true, it has the potential to be so much more than that. We encourage you to consider reflecting on your experiences with the guidance of Holy Spirit. Think of journaling as a form of prayer, an opportunity to pour out your joys, hurts, hopes, and become more aware of God’s presence throughout your life.
In the privacy offered through this personal time putting pen to paper, you can process fears, desires, and the most intimate prayers of your heart. Along those lines, you can also write about what you discover in Scripture and how it speaks to you or aligns with your life. It’s another way to spend time with God and examine your thoughts—to think about what you’re thinking about.
Over time, you may begin to recognize themes and patterns within your life. As you review what you write and uncover parts of your journey with Christ that you may not otherwise have noticed, talk about them with God.
Getting Started
Before you begin, we encourage you to make your favorite coffee or tea. Then find a quiet spot with your Bible, a pen, your journal, and any other journaling supplies that you enjoy.
Once you’ve settled into your space, begin with a brief prayer. Then re-read this week’s passage, Revelation 21:1-10, and spend time reflecting. Use the following prompts to guide your writing.
Journal Prompts:
- What stood out or resonated with you?
- Write down any verses or key points, then meditate on them quietly.
- What is God’s personal invitation to you?
- Take note of any ideas or shifts God may be inviting you into through this passage.
- Is there a specific situation in your life that relates?
- Consider how you can apply what God is inviting you into. Think back on what you received in contemplation and prayer during Lectio Divina yesterday.
- Jot down any other thoughts that came to mind while you were reading and reflecting.
- Get creative, especially if writing isn’t really your thing. Draw a picture, quote Scripture, create a collage, or write a poem.