Isaiah 66:18 “For I know their works and their thoughts, and the time is coming to gather all nations and tongues. And they shall come and shall see my glory…”.  Many English translations add the verb “know/observe/seen” but is not in the original Hebrew text.  It was added to help convey the meaning of the scripture. 

This verse comes towards the end of the book of Isaiah, and it is a prophecy of final judgment of the rebellious nations and for the faithful “survivors” remnant who endure.  God will send them to be missionaries to “proclaim my glory among the nations” (vs.19).  The contrast is so evident and sobering.  He who discerns the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12) will rightly judge the nations. “The new heavens and the new earth” (vs.22), is not something new, nor will they be different.  The proper lens is one of restoration, renewal, and a return to what was intended from the beginning, a close relationship with the Creator of the Universe.  A journey of love walking together and talking face to face.   

The blue in the middle is reminiscent of the Lord coming again in the clouds Revelation 1:7/Matthew 26:64/Zechariah 12:10).  Jesus will appear to all when He returns to earth from heaven.  The surrounding shapes quilted together with various skin tones and textures of the nation’s create this beautiful unique canvas.  This verse is translated in to 36 languages and only represents a small percentage of the thousands of languages around the world.  Humanity is unique, beautiful, different and yet we are all the same.  A time of separation and coming together.  Yes, the time is indeed coming!