In the aftermath of Easter break, it is often a busy time for both my husband and me. Like all working people, there are adjustments and ensuring things go back to a regular routine. Unfortunately, for those living the mission life, that is nearly impossible to do, because situations will often crop up. Having our focus on what we are doing is often a struggle in the face of studies, ministry and family, and finding the balance.
Over the past few weeks the scriptures relating to Matthew 6:25 -34 that has kept cropping up in various places. As we all know, (or maybe you don't) if that happens, it means God is trying to tell us something. Today, while that scripture didn't appear, the similar story in Luke 12:22-32 emphasised both the main themes of both; don't worry and seek the kingdom.
As we have talked about learning to rise above the worries, the seeking the kingdom can be a vague one if you are unsure what that means. We all know that loving God and others is essential, but letting go of the nagging things that demand their way in our lives can be difficult. Their voices often drown out the "still small voice". but God reminds us that if we stay the course and surrender all of these to Him, our reward will be great.
We can do whatever we like, but the road to God is narrow for a reason. It means a disciplined way of living, being content to live simply for God, and loving others above ourselves. So, what do we do with the things that get in the way? Look up to God! Trust Him and don't worry. If we do fall, God gives us a hand up and still loves us. We shine better in obedience, love and knowing His Kingdom is the end goal .
What does His Kingdom look like? Part of that answer is here and now. We live in unity with our Christian brothers and sisters as much as we are able, we serve with all our heart in our churches, our workplaces and in our homes, all to God's glory. While many of the things we do on earth won't exist in heaven (ministry, mission, evangelism etc), we can be confident a great feast awaits us with our King, who welcomes us home.
Last night in church, Ps. Adrian reminded us that the Kingdom will have many people we won't or don't expect to see, and that part is what should play in mission and discipling others. The unloved, the unwanted and those we may have trouble with are all important in God's eyes. Whoever challenges us probably should be added to the list, because they are invited to the Kingdom, and we should live and seek it out with all we have.
