Persons from Every Language, People, and Nation
Part One
During the month of September, we celebrate with enthusiasm, Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration that is traditionally celebrated throughout the latter half of September and the first half of October. The annual celebration and commemoration began as a way to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic Americans, including persons whose ancestry is rooted in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
In celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, people will often ask, “What is the difference between Hispanic and Latino?” The term Hispanic usually refers to Spanish-dense populations and Latino refers to Latin-American countries. The theme for this year’s celebration, is “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.” As I reflect on the theme, my soul joyfully remembers God’s promise to Abraham: “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” (Genesis 12:3). This scripture truly demonstrates that God embraces a muti-ethnic and multi-cultural church, from every tribe and nation of the earth including the myriad of persons of Hispanic and Latino origin.In addition, in fulfillment of Genesis 12:3, God gives us a glimpse of the people He expects around His throne at the end of time. Revelation 7:9 says, “After these things I looked, and here was an enormous crowd that no one could count, made up of persons from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb dressed in long white robes, and with palm branches in their hands.” Hispanic Heritage Month, like many ethnic commemorations, provides an opportunity for all of us in the family of God. We can learn more about the culture, joys, triumphs, and struggles of other members of our family, who may not look, dress, or communicate as we do. Since we’ll be spending eternity with our Latino/Hispanic brothers and sister in Christ, we might as well start getting to know them.
Stay tune for Part 2
