Today I want to encourage you in your understanding of being part of the Kingdom of God: here and now, and how we participate in the kingdom.

The gospel truth is this dear friend: if you are a baptised child of God, then you are a part of God’s Kingdom right now. Your King is loving and caring for you right now. That’s true no matter what the circumstances of your life. He has you in mind. He has you in his heart. And he cares deeply for your life right now.

When Pilate had Jesus in front of him, he had heard something about Jesus being a King. So, he quizzes Jesus about his Kingdom. This is how that part of the conversation went:

Jesus answered,

“My kingdom doesn’t belong to this world. If it did, my followers would have fought to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders.

No, my kingdom doesn’t belong to this world.”

“So you are a king,” Pilate replied.

“You are saying that I am a king,” Jesus told him. “I was born into this world to tell about the truth. And everyone who belongs to the truth knows my voice.”

John 18:36,37

Dear friend, during this season of lent, I’m encouraging you, from the Lord, your King and mine, to understand that you are part of the Kingdom here and now, and what that means for your life, new and eternally. If you, like me, have been tempted to turn aside and chase after other things, know and believe this: God knows all about it and he still loves you. His invitation remains:

Return to the Lord // Return to the Kingdom

So this is an encouragement to you and your life, as a part of the Kingdom. God has you in mind. He continues to provide you with daily opportunities to live and serve in His kingdom.

Lord, open our lives to you, our King, Redeemer, and Lord. Lead us where you want us to be and to do. Guide us a citizens of your eternal kingdom.