| “The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name.” |
| —Zechariah 14:9 |
Adrian “Buddy” King has written the words and music to a gospel song that has become quite famous in certain Evangelical circles. Though likely not written for this purpose, the song has found its way into the repertoire of soloists who sing at funerals. The words celebrate that day when Christ’s second coming ushers in the new heaven and the new earth. Here are those words:
A Great day is coming
Heavens gates will open wide,
And all who love the Lord will enter in;
To join with their loved ones who in Jesus Christ have died;
Our eternal life in Heaven to begin.
And the Lord Himself will greet us on that great and glorious day.
And with the smile of the proudest Father He’ll look at us and say:
“Welcome Home Children!
This is the place I’ve prepared for you.
Welcome home children, now that your work on earth is through.
Welcome home children, you who have followed so faithfully
Welcome home children!
Welcome home children!
Here where I am you shall always be
Forever rejoicing with me.”
The sentiment of this song is a sweet reminder of that day when we will all gather in heaven to spend eternity with our God and with each other. What a truly wonderful day that will be!
Unlike all other religions in the world, Christianity does not require its believers to work their way into eternal life. Rather, God has provided the one and only way through His Son Jesus. God has done everything. We are chosen by Him for eternity. The Holy Spirit reveals this great truth to us. And, the Holy Spirit enables us to receive God’s precious gift. But, a very important truth contained in this reality is that on that day, God’s reign will be revealed to everyone. Notice what the Prophet Zechariah proclaimed, as recorded in Zechariah 14:9:
The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name.
That phrase, “on that day,” is a very powerful phrase. It speaks of the culmination of one age and the beginning of a new and eternal age. All old things will pass away. All things will become new.
As we start another day of life, let’s remember that we are only passing through this world on our way to the best possible eternal world. Our task here is to lovingly, patiently, and very respectfully share the good news of that great new world.
As we encounter people today, let’s be keenly aware of the nudging of the Holy Spirit when He wants us to say a word in behalf of God’s Kingdom. No more precious opportunity should consume us than the opportunity to represent well the God who loves us so very much.
Based on a blog originally posted on Friday, October 12, 2018
