September 29

Mark 1:14-15; Matthew 4:12-17; Luke 3:23; John 4:46-54; Luke 4:16-30; Mark 1:16-20; Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:21-28; Luke 4:31-37; Mark 1:29-34; Matthew 8:14-17; Luke 4:38-41; Mark 1:35-39; Luke 4:42-44; Matthew 4:23-25

We do not often think about kingdoms, but there are still a few kingdoms around such as the Kingdom of Bhutan, the Kingdom of Cambodia, and the Kingdom of Thailand. We may not use the term, but we need to understand what it means because the concept of kingdom was the primary thing Jesus taught. A kingdom involves at least three things: 1) a king, 2) a territory, and 3) citizens. As Jesus speaks of his kingdom, he is presenting himself as king. His rule is marked by light, healing, love, freedom, and life. His territory is presently wherever people submit to his rule. So, his kingdom has invaded every country in the world! Yet its ultimate territory will be the whole universe at his return.

This is an already/not yet reality. To be a citizen of this kingdom, you must choose to participate. We become citizens of his kingdom through the work of Christ, by grace through faith, both now and forever. As citizens of this kingdom, our lives should be marked by the characteristics of it and in calling others to follow the King.

Father God, thank you for your kingdom of life and light. Help me to live in a kingdom way today and to call others to become citizens of your kingdom. Amen.

How have you seen God's kingdom in the last week?