“…many live as enemies of the cross…but our citizenship is in heaven.” (Philippians 3:18,20)
“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household…” (Ephesians 2:19)
Everyone has a desire deep within to belong. People may loudly proclaim their indepedance and self-sufficiency but we all have a need to be a part of something bigger. The pursuit to satisfy this need, at its worse, as shown itself in the growth of gangs and a “mob” mentality. I believe that this desire within us is something God created and placed into the fabric of who we are as His beloved. When we are reconciled to Him we are simultaneously brought into His Kingdom. We go from being “aliens” to being “citizens” of God”s country. We are not only “born again” but we are “brought in” and are sworn in officially as God’s people. We are no longer foreigners to heaven!
However, this also means that we become foreigners to the kingdom of this world. Suddenly we are uncomfortable and unfulfilled with the empty pursuits of this world. We have become aware of a Kingdom…a family that is filled with meaning and purpose. We have gone from seeing the world in black and white to seeing it in 3D living color! It is both exciting and sad as we watch those who only know of the temporary world and live day to day without hope. And so, as our hearts break, we cry out…
“Thy Kingdom come”
It is a part of the Lord’s prayer that asks God to reveal Himself through us to those around us. We may pray…
“That others may see you as I have seen you. That they may become aware of another Kingdom. One that is not of this world. One of hope and meaning. One where they might find belonging.”
Today, as you pray the Lord’s prayer think of others who are unaware of this invitation to belong to something bigger…something better. Pray that God’s Kingdom would come! Not just for your continued blessing, but for the benefit of others in darkness. You and I are truly “ambassadors” of the Kingdm of God! Ours is a citizenship worth sharing.
“Thy Kingdom come”