The Lord’s heart beats for the nations. We see it all throughout scripture – the way the Lord is always looking to express his love, passion, justice and mercy, first toward Israel and then toward all the peoples of the earth. Isaiah 49:6 says, speaking of the Messiah, “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Nations, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.” And before Jesus ascended to heaven, He said: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28: 18-20).

The book of revelation paints a picture of heaven with a “great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb” (Revelations 7:9). There is an indescribable beauty that is expressed when people of many different nations and cultural expressions are unified under the banner of Jesus, the Root of Jesse, to bring glory to the Lord (Isaiah 11:10).

The greater Washington D.C. area is home of the embassies of most nations, numerous international organizations, and also many immigrant communities. Thus, in the Washington metropolitan region in general and in Montgomery County, Maryland, in particular, we have the unique privilege of having people from every nation of the earth living among us. It is our vision to reach out to them, share the truth in love, and to see the Lord Jesus lifted up among the peoples of our region and the peoples of the earth as “King of the Nations” (Jeremiah 10:7).