Over the River to the Golden City

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” — from Isaiah 43

At last Christian and Hopeful came near the end of their long journey. They could see the Celestial City shining on its hill, its walls and gate gleaming like gold. But between them and the gate lay one last thing: a deep river, with no bridge across it.

“You must go through the river,” they were told, “or you cannot reach the gate.” So the two friends stepped in — and the water was deep. Christian began to sink, and fear filled him. “I’m going under!” he cried. “The waves are going over my head!” All his old worries came rushing back.

But Hopeful held up Christian’s head and called out, “Be cheerful, my brother — I can feel the bottom, and it is solid!” And Christian remembered God’s promise: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” At once his feet found the ground, and together they crossed safely to the other side.

There, two shining ones met them and led them up to the golden gate. They handed in their letters, and the gate swung open. They were given shining robes, and harps, and crowns — and as they went in, every bell in the City rang out for joy, and a voice said, “Come and share your Master’s happiness!”

Christian was home at last, safe and full of joy forever. And that is where the road of following God leads every traveller who keeps trusting him — all the way home.

Dear God, thank you that you are with me all the way, even to the very end, and that your City is home. Help me keep walking with you. Amen.