As I watched the eye-popping extravaganza of flags from the nations of the world, only one thought kept reverberating through my spirit: "What if all these flags were waving, not to commemorate a worldwide sports event in Russia, but rather a procession of nations streaming into Jerusalem?"
I will also bless the Gentiles who commit themselves to the LORD and serve Him and love His Name, who worship Him and do not desecrate the Sabbath day of rest, and who have accepted His covenant. I will bring them also to My holy mountain of Jerusalem and will fill them with joy in my house of prayer. I will accept their burnt offerings and sacrifices, because my Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations. For the Sovereign Lord, who brings back the outcasts of Israel says: I will bring others too, besides My people Israel." (Isaiah 56:6-8 NLT)
Watching this huge Olympic procession of nations, I envisioned this Scripture coming to pass. In the Spirit I could see them - the "outcasts of Israel," the scattered ones, the Russians, the Asians, the Africans, the Europeans, the Americans - those who have committed themselves to the Holy One of Israel and who have come into covenant with Him! Our gracious God opens His Temple on the mountain of Jerusalem to the nations on that Day, and proclaims it to be "a house of prayer for all nations."
This vision was especially meaningful to me today after hearing the inspiring message from Ari Abramowitz. He is a Jewish Rabbi and former I.D.F. Commander, well known in the state of Israel; and this morning he touched me deeply when speaking about the building of the third Temple in Jerusalem. His words: "I see this Temple as God sees it - as a 'house of prayer for all nations.' And I am praying for all of you to be right there with us!"
It was the elder brother welcoming the younger brother home. It was Judah holding out his arms to Ephraim. It was the vision of the LORD Himself, who welcomes all who serve Him, love His name, and worship Him alone.
May all the flags of the nations soon be streaming in a far greater procession toward Jerusalem - where we will all be ONE NATION under ONE KING! And I will make a covenant of peace with them, an everlasting covenant. I will give them their land and multiply them, and I will put my Temple among them forever. I will make my home among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people. And since my Temple will remain among them forever, the nations will know that I, the LORD, have set Israel apart for Myself to be holy." (Ezekiel 37:26-28 NLT)
Gratitude and blessings to all those who have blessed Israel by sowing seed into our upcoming trip there on March 4. There is still time to send a donation online, and we will really be grateful for your help! www.doorkeeperministries.com/donate
Shalom,
Kelly & John
