Born of God: The Glory of Citizenship in Zion

by Torrie Slaughter

Today, we step into the poetic majesty of Psalm 87, a brief but powerful psalm that celebrates the eternal city of God—Zion—and the joy of belonging to Him. This psalm isn’t just about a place on a map; it’s about identity, legacy, and the boundless reach of God's kingdom.

The psalm begins with a declaration:

"His foundation is on the holy mountains. The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob." (Psalm 87:1–2)

This is no casual affection—God loves Zion. It represents His chosen dwelling place, His holy city. And while Zion was a physical place, it also symbolizes God’s eternal presence, rule, and the community of His people.

But Psalm 87 does something radical for its time: it expands the borders of belonging. It lists cities like Rahab (Egypt), Babylon, Philistia, and Tyre—not traditional friends of Israel—as places where God will say, “This one was born in Zion.” (v. 4)

Let that sink in.

This is God's inclusive invitation. The people once considered outsiders are now being welcomed in—not because of heritage, but because of God’s grace.

🏡 What does this mean for us today?

It means that our identity is not defined by where we started, but by where we’ve been reborn. In Christ, we are made citizens of Zion—grafted into the family of God through faith. Whether you were born into a Christian family or are just discovering Jesus today, your spiritual birthplace is recorded in His kingdom.

“The Lord will write in the register of the peoples: ‘This one was born in Zion.’” (Psalm 87:6)

He sees you. He claims you. He writes your name in His book. That’s legacy. That’s love.

💡 Reflection:

• Do you see yourself as a citizen of Zion—God’s kingdom?

• How does that identity shape the way you live, speak, and serve?

• Are you welcoming others into the inheritance of God’s grace?

🙏 Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of citizenship in Your holy city. Thank You for calling us by name and recording our identity in Your book. Help us live from that place of belonging—welcoming others, walking in purpose, and rejoicing in the glory of being Yours. May Your kingdom come in our lives as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.