The LORD is merciful and compassionate,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
The LORD is good to everyone.
He showers compassion on all his creation.
All of your works will thank you, Lord,
and your faithful followers will praise you.
They will speak of the glory of your kingdom;
they will give examples of your power.
They will tell about your mighty deeds
and about the majesty and glory of your reign.
For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom.
You rule throughout all generations. (Psalm 145:8–13 NLT)
As I write this, I am in a far-off land with a number of NAB ministry leaders, exploring the possibilities of a new church plant in a place which, at first glance, seems empty of the Lord’s presence and power. Darkness fills so much of this culture, and a distance from the heart and way of Jesus seems the norm.
My soul is buoyed as I read of God’s character of compassion, his unfailing love, and the glory of his Kingdom. In a place like the one I find myself today, I am reminded that God’s Kingdom can feel far off in dark places, but his Word is clear that it is an everlasting Kingdom, full of glory and demonstrating his power.
It must have felt the same so often for the disciples following Jesus in those closing days before his arrest. Darkness filled the land. Plans for killing Jesus seemed to pop up every day, and even the most devout followers doubted his powerful compassion. And yet, Jesus’s arrival in Jerusalem as a humble king reminds us all of the majesty of God’s reign, which looks nothing like the kingdoms of this world.
Come, Lord Jesus.