Citizens of a Coming Kingdom

Like pilgrims on a journey, we are looking for the Kingdom of God. We confess that we are "strangers and pilgrims on the earth" (Hebrews 11:13), and "declare plainly" that we "seek a homeland" (Verse 14). That kingdom will soon be here when "the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established on the top of the mountains" (Isaiah 2:2)!

Until that day comes, we are "ambassadors for Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:20), living as citizens of His coming kingdom. The government that will rule in that kingdom governs our lives today. "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Philippians 3:20).

One day, peace will spread over the earth as nations cease their warfare. "Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore" (Isaiah 2:4). With Christ ruling in our lives today, we are "the peacemakers" who "shall be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). We must put away the "desires for pleasure that war" in our flesh (James 4:1), and "pursue peace with all people" (Hebrews 12:14).

In God's kingdom, "the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea" (Isaiah 11:9). That is what our lives should be like now. God wants us to be "filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding" (Colossians 1:9). In the kingdom of God, the whole earth will bear fruit in abundance. Men "will say, 'This land that was desolate has become like the garden of Eden'" (Ezekiel 36:35). Even "the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose" (Isaiah 35:1). Likewise, our lives that "were once darkness" should now bear "the fruit of the Spirit...in all goodness, righteousness, and truth" (Ephesians 5:8-9).

As we continue like "strangers and pilgrims on the earth" (Hebrews 11:13), our lives should show that we are citizens of the coming kingdom of God. Though it is not yet here, its King is already reigning in our lives. Take this thought to heart as you make your final preparations to keep the Feast picturing the kingdom for which we so earnestly seek! And as we continue our pilgrimage looking for "the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matthew 6:33), may the Ruler of that kingdom always reign in our lives!

Warm regards,

Andy

Pastor