In preparation for the Rugby League World Cup, currently underway, one country began celebrating as though they had already won: The Kingdom of Tonga.
Is it because they were overconfident they would win the tournament? No, no. Is it because they were confused? No, no. This is their culture; their way of showing support to the team, whose members play all over the world. They even had some high profile stars defect from larger nations—Australia and New Zealand—to be part of the team.
Before the tournament they all got together in Tonga. They paraded through the capital in open trucks to say “we are here to represent the country”. At least 100 cars and trucks drove through Nuku’alofa town, adorned with Tongan flags and red graffiti. Many of the vehicles used large sound systems to blast the air with Tongan music. People showed their support by throwing flowers on the team members, dancing around them and giving them food and money. The celebration was huge. I wonder what it will be like if Tonga does win? I think I will hear their shouting all the way from Fiji!
The Bible describes the second coming of Jesus as the biggest event that this world will ever witness. He will be surrounded by all His holy angels, with a mighty blast of trumpets and shouting that everyone everywhere will hear. Everyone will get to see it, for it will be like lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west.
Jesus’ second coming will be the biggest celebration of all the ages. The good news for me is that I am going to be part of this celebration and I want to get all my family and friends, and everyone else, to be part of this “greatest celebration”.
Unlike Tonga’s celebration where they are not sure who will win (I am hoping they will), Jesus has already won the victory over this world. Join me in preparation for that greatest celebration—”. . . thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57).
