Feel thirsty?

Revelation 22: 16-17

16 ‘It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.’
¹⁷ The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come.’
And let everyone who hears say, ‘Come.’
And let everyone who is thirsty come.
Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift.

Early Christians had a highly valued appreciation but not an elitist view of their position in Christ. They understood that the position of Grace that they valued and enjoyed was extended to them by the fulfilment of the scriptures as revealed in the story of Jesus the Son of David.  Early disciples had a scriptural view both of Jesus and themselves. Their privileged position was also offered by Jesus to all people by the Holy Spirit and through His indwelling in the church; the community of believers. The only qualification for inclusion in the eternal Kingdom of peace is to hear the words of Jesus and put them into practice. This is symbolised in our passage as having an overwhelming thirst for inclusion; that is, a profound sickening of meeting personal needs our own way by disregarding the ways of God. The water of life for inclusion is coming to Jesus and accepting Him as He is revealed in scripture.  Jesus is Lord. There are no entry fees or religious rituals just a heartfelt need and a simple and genuine acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Saviour. This turning to Jesus is confirmed by Jesus with the free gift of inclusion; a transformed and eternal life. Feel thirsty? Then come there is room for us all.