the Kingdom

I am part of a kingdom.  This kingdom is ruled with righteousness and love.  The Master of this KIngdom is all-powerful, and He is good.  Life in the kingdom is often different from what I expect, for it is a kingdom unlike any other.  In this kingdom, the last is first, you lead by serving, the greatest is the least.  This Kingdom invaded the earth some 2000 years ago, when the King arrived in a very unlikely way.  He didn't announce His arrival with a great show of His power.  But He used His great power to heal, restore, to forgive.

The Kingdom of God here on earth can be difficult to see at times.  At the other side of the world right now tens of thousands of people have died in the terrible wake of a cyclone.  Now there is fighting and fear as survivors clamor for food and water and search for people they love.  But even there, in Myanmar, the Kingdom of God will advance.  Christ-followers will offer the hand of hope and help.  Sacrifices will be made in the name of Jesus as members of the Kingdom reach out to the "least of these".

And here, in Eugene Oregon, the Kingdom of God is advancing.  And I am a part of it.  So today I am quiet before My King, listening for His guidance.  What is my role in the Kingdom today?  How will He direct my steps?  I know He wants me to be wise, prepared, willing to take risks and to trust Him.  And I know He wants me to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, care for the sick, and bring hope to the captives.  And sometime, maybe when I least expect it, My King will return and all will see His Kingdom.  

The King gives me encouragement along the way.  He promises to be with me.  He assures me that nothing can separate me from His love.  He reminds me of the victorious end of the story. And He says that I might hear this from My Master:

"Well done, good and faithful servant!  You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.  Come and share your master's happiness!"

Matthew 25:21