It's hard to imagine being happy about losing the majestic old ocean. We struggle to see how the new heavens and earth could be more beautiful if there's truly no sea with its shining waves and sandy shores. Could the text be a metaphor, influenced by the ancient East's view of the sea? The idea of a world without an ocean feels bleak, like a ring without its gem.

This must have a spiritual meaning. In God's new creation, there will be no separation. The sea divides nations and people. For John on Patmos, the waters were like walls, keeping him from his friends and his work. In heaven, there will be no such barriers. Our loved ones may feel far, but in heaven, there will be unbroken fellowship for all.

The sea symbolizes change: its ebbs and flows, calm and storms, never staying the same for long. It's guided by fickle winds and a changeable moon, known for its instability. Here on earth, we see this instability everywhere. But in heaven, there will be no sad changes, no fear of storms to shatter our hopes and joys. The sea of glass will glow undisturbed. No tempests will trouble paradise. Soon, we'll reach that peaceful land where partings, changes, and storms will be no more.

Jesus will carry us there. Are we in Him? That's the crucial question.