Revelation 7:9-12
9 After this I looked, and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, robed in white, with palm branches in their hands. 10 They cried out in a loud voice, saying,
“Salvation belongs to our God who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb!”
11 And all the angels stood around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, 12 singing,
“Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom
and thanksgiving and honor
and power and might
be to our God forever and ever! Amen.”
“… 9 After this I looked, and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages …”
Despite what some seem to think, I believe the heavenly realm is populated with people of all kinds. The writer of Revelation envisions those present at the throne of grace coming from all backgrounds, ethnicities, races, and people. Rather than a limited number of folks from a narrow cultural band, the apostle’s vision is expansive and inclusive. I love that image.
Too often, we get the notion that only a select few are invited to the banquet. While some Scriptural passages seem to support that idea, most of the Bible opens the door to a great multitude. Jesus himself, while calling forth faithfulness, obedience to God, and service to others, also indicates that, through the cross and the empty tomb, many more will be welcome to participate in the fullness of the kingdom.
Heaven is open to all. Being in the presence of God around the throne of grace is not limited to a few but prepared for the multitude that, as John observes, is too many to number. Thankfully, God is a God of grace, receiving into the fullness of the kingdom people of every race and tongue, of every tribe and nation.
Prayer: Your mercy and grace, O Lord, abounds for all. Remind me of Your welcoming and gracious acceptance of all when my heart seeks to limit who You call to Your heavenly realm. Amen.