Today is June 2.

May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

This week, our reflections centered on Pentecost, and considered how God’s love for the all the nations is demonstrated throughout scripture.

Today's reading is from Revelation, chapter 7. Over the course of this week, we’ve reflected on several passages of scripture that help us understand the missional nature of God. This scripture, from Revelation, gives us a picture of what that mission will look like at the end of times: all the nations, giving worship to God.

"9 After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. 10 And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

Revelation 7 describes a massive scene: an uncountable multitude of people, gathering from every nation, every tribe, every people, and every language. And together, as one, they are standing before the throne of God crying out in worship. Imagine you could see this vision for yourself... and take time to consider all the people who would be gathered there. What sounds and sights? What ethnicities would you see? What customs and clothes? What would it feel like to be among that multitude, do you think?

As you listen again to the reading, consider that this picture offers a culmination of God’s missional nature. God came into the world in one human person—Christ—in one place and time, in one limited geography. And through that person, he built a bridge for all humanity to come to him. And then he sent His spirit, to inspire us and to fill us with the outward-spilling power and presence of God.

"9 After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. 10 And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

All Christians are called to mission. Some give and support financially and practically. Some pray, and support with encouragement and spiritual care. And some go. If you are a part of a local church and are not connected with community, or mission, or service... take time this week to find how you can get involved. As we close this week’s Pentecost reflections, ask God to stir up in you both a sense of His Spirit, and also a sense of his sending.

Music Credit:
I Give My All - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)