Comparing the visions of Revelation to Dorothy visiting Oz opens the door to a renewed sense of wonder and amazement at what God has done for us through his Son. The tour through New Jerusalem helps us "visualize" the things that are at the very heart of God. I love how John's final vision is full of the reminder that God gives life (not death) abundant food (not starvation) thirst quenching water without cost, and healing for all the nations. This is what God has always been about and in the End we will see a new Beginning - the garden of Eden fully restored.By the way, Katie Thompson wins the Inquisitive Bible Reader award today. While I was reading the list of jewels that are part of the New Jerusalem she thought that they sounded familiar. She had been reading in Exodus recently so she turned back to re-read the description of the High Priest's breastplate. It is not coincidence that John uses some of the very jewels that the High Priest wore over his heart as he ministered before the Lord in the Most Holy Place. Revelation is full of surprises like that for the discerning reader.
