Then I saw a very great number of angels bring from the city glorious
crowns--a crown for every saint, with his name written thereon.
As Jesus called for the crowns, angels presented them to Him,
and with His own right hand, the lovely Jesus placed the crowns
on the heads of the saints. In the same manner the angels brought
the harps, and Jesus presented them also to the saints. The commanding
angels first struck the note, and then every voice was raised
in grateful, happy praise, and every hand skillfully swept over
the strings of the harp, sending forth melodious music in rich
and perfect strains. Then I saw Jesus lead the redeemed company
to the gate of the city. He laid hold of the gate and swung it
back on its glittering hinges and bade the nations that had kept
the truth enter in. Within the city there was everything to feast
the eye. Rich glory they beheld everywhere. Then Jesus looked
upon His redeemed saints; their countenances were radiant with
glory; and as He fixed His loving eyes upon them, He said, with
His rich, musical voice, "I behold the travail of My soul,
and am satisfied. This rich glory is yours to enjoy eternally.
Your sorrows are ended. There shall be no more death, neither
sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain."
I saw the redeemed host bow and cast their glittering crowns at
the feet of Jesus, and then, as His lovely hand raised them up,
they touched their golden harps and filled all heaven with their
rich music and songs to the Lamb.
I then saw Jesus leading His people to the tree of life, and again
we heard His lovely voice, richer than any music that ever fell
on mortal ear, saying, "The leaves of this tree are for the
healing of the nations. Eat ye all of it." Upon the tree
of life was most beautiful fruit, of which the saints could partake
freely. In the city was a most glorious throne, from which proceeded
a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal. On each side
of this river was the tree of life, and on the banks of the river
were other beautiful trees bearing fruit which was good for food.
Language is altogether too feeble to attempt a description of
heaven. As the scene rises before me, I am lost in amazement.
Carried away with the surpassing splendor and excellent glory,
I lay down the pen, and exclaim, "Oh, what love! what wondrous
love!" The most exalted language fails to describe the glory
of heaven or the matchless depths of a Saviour's love. -