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God's Kingdom
 

For the kingdom of God is not food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Romans 14:17

God's Kingdom

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus never directly answered the question "What is the Kingdom of God?" but spoke in parables instead. He compared the Kingdom of God to the small mustard seed that springs up and becomes the largest of plants. (See Mark 4:30-32.) This parable sheds light on the Christian call to hasten the coming of God's kingdom.

Contemplate a world without crime, poverty, and hunger. Think about what the world would be like if it were filled with righteousness, peace, and joy. These qualities mark the kingdom that Jesus proclaimed. Though it is easy to get caught up in fatalistic, "It is impossible" or "I can't make a difference," Jesus calls his followers to believe in the coming of the kingdom.

Not Impossible

The mustard seed was tiny, but little by little it was transformed into a large shade tree. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus empowers his followers to further the Father's reign. He calls Christians to participate in his work of transforming the world. As a disciple of Jesus, when you show peace, justice, and love, you bear witness to the kingdom.

Reflect

• How do you bear witness to the kingdom in your daily life?
• In what ways have you seen signs of the kingdom in other people?
• What action can you take in your community to further the reign of God?

Prayer

Abba, Thy kingdom come! Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.