So often we hear reports about the decline of Christian conviction. Many people are deconstructing their once firmly-held Christian beliefs. Regular church attendance is on a general trend downwards. All of this can perhaps make us feel a bit disillusioned about what God is up to. Perhaps even cynical? Maybe a bit grouchy? Is there any hope? Is there any reason to be optimistic about what God is up to in the world? Revelation 7:1-17 assures us that what we see as a discouraging mess is not what God sees! God has a glorious vision for this world. This is one of the most beautiful, hope-filled visions in all of the Bible. We need to hold on to this vision in order to be the people God’s called us to be. God wants to restore our hope and optimism about what he's up to in this world!