After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number,
from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” Rev. 7:9–10
Heavenly Father, as you know, between early May and mid-August, Darlene and I were to be in Northern Ireland, Spain, Montana, Alaska, and Canada. We were so looking forward to being in many special places with so many beloved people.
But as we plan, so you order our steps—even using global pandemics to accomplish your eternal decrees and sovereign plans. That’s why we need not fear your canceling the one “trip,” gathering, and destination that will make all other trips seem like a stroll to the 7-Eleven, for a Diet Coke and pack of peanuts.
Oh, for the great Day and destination John writes about in these two verses. Women and men, from “every nation, tribe, people, and language” will be wearing the robes of grace-secured salvation; waving palm branches of consummate peace and joy; shouting and singing in perfect harmony to you—our Triune God, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” (Rev. 7:10).
Places familiar in this world will be restored and glorified. Our forever-family will come from every race that has ever sucked in your gift of breath. We will, only and forever, love each other perfectly. But most wonderful of all, we will know and worship you—with whole hearts, resurrected bodies, in the new heaven and new earth. Make it soon, Father, please. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ great and gracious name.
