One of the encouraging benefits of our Christian faith is understanding there is a better future that awaits the saints of God. Scripture gives us glimpse of what God’s people can anticipate when Jesus returns and consummates the Kingdom he began during his earthly ministry. In what we call the Great Commission, Jesus told his disciples to go into all nations making disciples (Matt. 28:18-20). It is our fundamental work as a church. In Revelation 7:9-10, John portrays a vision of worship in heaven that helps us see what our faithfulness to the Great Commission will result in. 9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” What a beautiful picture is portrayed in these verses, and what a tremendous reminder that the gospel we share is for everyone. Our mission as an association is to partner together for the gospel to reach the northland and the nations. Whether we reach the nations globally or locally, may the work we do and the proclamation we share bring life transformation to all to hear – to glory of God. – Dr. Gary Mathes