See, I am making all things new. (Revelation 21:5)
See, I am making all things new!
(Revelation 21:5)
This is the motto for us for 2026.
And the words are meant to offer hope, and to accompany us throughout the year.
The verse comes from Revelation, the last book of the Bible. It is attributed to the Apostle John. He wrote it during his exile on the island of Patmos, because at that time Christians were persecuted by the Roman Empire. Over time the book of Revelation was often interpreted as a disaster report, for it contains many symbols and visions that tend to be pessimistic. However, John's actual intention was to provide comfort and pastoral care to the seven churches in Minor Asia that suffered greatly under Roman oppression.
The verse "See, I am making all things new!" appears in the second-last chapter of Revelation. In a vision, John describes how heaven and earth are re-created and tears, death, and suffering are overcome.
He writes, "God will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain." And then he envisions a city that offers protection. "Nothing impure" can enter for in this new world, people live in close proximity to God. Whereas the old world, with all its injustice, suffering, violence, and death is overcome.
For John, this transformation is not just about superficial change. The old world is not just hidden away, or glossed over, but overcome… entirely gone. John describes a complete, sweeping transformation. For he is yearning with the people for a profound transformation of the world and life… a transformation that is done by God, God who is not portrayed as a distant observer, but as active: God mends, heals, and comforts. God continuously creates and makes new. God gives hope.
John’s account is a counter narrative in the face of all that’s going wrong in our world these days... in the midst of one crisis after another, wars, and uncertainty. He reminds us to hope and to trust in God’s presence. For him the vision of the Kingdom of God is not a distant utopia, but a very concrete invitation to remain hopeful. We are invited to let go of old habits, and seek new paths, and renew relationships. John is encouraging his people and us to embrace changes, transitions, and new beginnings - trusting that God is in charge.
May this year’s motto remind us of the hope for an all-encompassing renewal of the world, in our congregation, and in our lives in which God's justice and peace will reign.