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
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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.