There's a Land - The Wesleyan Church

For God will save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah. Then the people will settle there and possess it. (Ps. 69:35)

Expanded Passage: Psalm 69:29-36

In the late 1990s, my daughter Kristi was a volunteer with World Hope when, under the direction of NATO, refugees were being repatriated from Albania back to their homes in Kosovo. The excitement of going home mixed with the uncertainty of what lay ahead was strong, and expectations were high and hopeful.

The people here in Psalm 69 had been promised a new home in which they could settle, possess, and inherit. Those who loved the name of God would dwell there. The power of God to save the people and rebuild their cities was clearly stated.

Across the years there has been considerable derision aimed at the old gospel song that says, “There’s a land that is fairer than day and by faith we can see it afar.” The title captures the overarching truth: “In the Sweet By and By.” A new home. A new reality. A fulfilled promise. These lyrics and verses reminded me powerfully of the new home being built where all fully devoted followers of Christ will be invited to settle, possess, and inherit. In the spirit of the promise given to the folk of Psalm 69, all those who love the name of God will dwell there.

That was no empty promise those long years ago. It is no empty promise now to all who love and serve the Master.

Never underestimate the care of God for his people.

HC Wilson is General Superintendent Emeritus of The Wesleyan Church. He and his wife, Debby, reside in New Brunswick, Canada.

There’s a Land