Nations of the World

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19 NIV

Like most others, I learned at an early age the words to a Sunday School song - ‘He has the whole world in His hands’ yet when was the last time you really thought about what those lyrics mean? The ‘whole world’ means everything in the world- everything in its entirety (Todo el mundo.- I am trying to learn the Spanish language too. LOL) The whole world consists of all the stars in the sky, the waters, the lands, and all that is living in it. Every nation is in His hands! He did not say only a specific population of people. He, as the creator, cares for us enough to have written the names of those who believe in him on the palm of His hand (Isaiah 49:16). He will protect us and keep us safe. That is pretty cool! He is not a God for only one nation. He loves each and every person from every nation unconditionally!

When you stop to compare the individual nations of the world they each consist of waters, sky, land and living things. The stars in the sky appear the same, as does the water, however a single day in Epcot with my family served as a simple reminder of the diversity of the world. From one nation to the next there are recognizable differences in cultures, languages, relics, and customs (not to mention incredible foods). The differences are usually very distinct. The music, spices, and languages are all revealing of a particular nation and the people of the land. Every nation is unique with specific characteristics.

Living in South Florida, on the other hand, means living in an environment that’s extremely diverse. (I have students in my classes who speak languages I did not even know exist.) That is also the same when speaking of those living in New York, California, Texas, Michigan, ….ummm….. let me just say many places (too many to mention) within the United States have those diverse populations. We live within populated areas that are becoming more diverse daily. Years ago the United States was thought to be a melting pot of people and cultures but we all know it today as a great big salad bowl. Although the ingredients may take on some of the flavors of the other ingredients in the bowl, each come together to create a wonderful salad yet each maintain specific distinctive tastes while adding to the bowl yet maintaining its individuality.

Today people do not have to travel far from your their front door to become immersed in another culture. While many may think others should adapt to the American way of living, I think it is pretty exciting to be in an environment so rich in culture. “Epcot” is actually part of my world around me. Besides the difference in landscape, I do not have to travel to distant lands to experience the world. We do not have to travel far from home. We do not have to pack a bag or even get a passport. Jesus is bringing the nations to us. We have been told “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19 NIV) You are in the palm of His hand. Don’t you want to have the names of each of your family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers on the palm of His hands too? Be bold in Christ today and teach people through your life how to live for Him and with Him. Be that living example. Instruct and share the gospel with all men without exception. You may think this job is not for you because you may feel weak and ill-equipped but if you step out in faith you will see that He who lives within you is strong and has prepared you for an exciting journey