Celebrate the Nations

We will never forget last night’s “Celebrate the Nations” concert at the Missions en Fete conference in Montreal. Here is the program (translated into English):

I gave a brief talk after the solo. Then all the choirs massed on the stage for a rousing rendition of “To God Be the Glory” in French and English. We were all cheering and wiping the tears away when it was over.

It was one of the most moving services we have ever attended. Each choir sang in their own language so we didn’t know exactly what they were saying, but the joy of the Lord came through clearly. Listening and watching made you feel like this was a preview of heaven itself when there will be a vast multitude gathered round the throne from every tribe, tongue and nation, singing praise to the Lord (Revelation 7:9-12). In that day the only difference will be that when the Chinese sing, we will know what they are saying, and when the Brazilians sing, we will understand their words. Last night was a reminder that God’s heart is big, that he intends to have a big family in heaven, and that he will not be defeated.

What a happy day it will be when all the things that divide us on earth are removed, and all God’s children from every corner of the globe gather round the throne to praise the name of Jesus.