In that day Israel will be the third with Egypt and Assyria, a blessing in the midst of the earth, whom the LORD of hosts has blessed, saying, “Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel my inheritance.”
Isaiah 19:24-25 (ESV)
Lord Jesus, my mind has been reflecting upon all the religions of the world. Over the course of the day I come into contact with so many people, with such great diverse backgrounds, most coming with some sort of religious position differing from mine.
In a world where diversity and inclusion are ideals to be aspired towards, I must confess that the notion comes into direct conflict with my faith beliefs. Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Krishna are no gods. Allah is not another name for You. Buddhism is not a rewording of Your truths. Though in some respects they touch on what You declare, Romans 1:21-23 is indeed true:
For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.
It is against this backdrop that I pray for them, and those even of the Christian faith who have been deceived by what appears to be the truth but is not. Lord, my soul longs for that day when You shall remove the veil from all eyes, where all of mankind will know You, seeing You as the Savior that You are, understanding the truth, and being freed from the lie. In that day bad theology, idolatrous thinking, and soulful rebellion will be put aside, and we will see You and know You for You will reveal Yourself to us in all of Your glory.
Lord, I pray for that day. Until it comes, please use me to be a source of hope and life to those who don’t know You. Give me the words to say, the actions to take, and the heart to sacrifice for them that they might see You in me, recognize their need, and inquire, “What must I do to be saved?” I thank You for sending someone to bring me to that place. I pray that You would likewise send me to Your glory. Amen.