Observation: As the "seven bowls" are about to begin, John sees both the seven angels but also this gathering of the faithful who "been victorious" during what seems like the tribulation. They are standing beside a "sea of glass glowing with fire". This is a great sea that doesn't just look like liquid water that moves and reflects light, instead it appears more solid yet it also shimmers with an intensity.
This is the crystal sea of heaven. It is peaceful because it can never roar or rage with the energy of waves. It is beautiful in its purity and splendid reflection of dancing light. It is vast and thus still projects the strength of the great power of the ocean.
Application: Laurie and I have talked about "where to live" in heaven, and she is firm that she wants to live near "the crystal sea". I never knew this was actually in the bible until today, as I guess I've always overlooked it. This is a sea of both beauty and purity, but also calm and strength. It portrays the wonder and greatness of an ocean as we would understand it, but without any of the dangers we might think of related to flooding or storm waves. And it is uniquely capable of reflecting light in a manner so grand it makes it seem that it's "glowing with fire", and of course the source of light in heaven is the Lord himself.
I may still want to live by the river of life that flows from the throne, but I doubt I'm good enough for such real estate. I could live by the crystal sea.
Prayer: Lord, today I discovered your great sea in heaven. What more do you have to show me next year, in my next reading of the bible? Your word is new every day. Amen.
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