Luke 17:20-21 (NIV) The Coming of the Kingdom of God
20 Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, 21 nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”
Sometimes, people are so busy looking for something that they do not see what is right in front of them. They can’t see the forest for the trees! Are you like that? Are you looking for the Kingdom? Where would be the best place to start looking?
I used to think the Kingdom of heaven was something that I would see only after passing from this world. I thought I had to endure this life in order to earn my mansion in Heaven. I did not realize that, in God’s realm, there are more dimensions than humans can see in our finite lives. There is more than meets the eye.
The Bible often speaks to us on different levels. We think it is talking about the physical level and it is in the spiritual realm. So it is with the Kingdom of Heaven. There is the real place and then there is the place in your heart. If you trust Jesus, He enters your heart and abides there. Any place where God has placed His name and resides is the Kingdom. Therefore, the Kingdom of God is here and now and living inside of you. If the Kingdom is inside you, how should you live? Should you live blessed? Should you live joyful? Should you have peace? Should you let the light of God’s glory shine out from within? Yes to all of the above. Live like a child of the King because that is what you are. Be bold. Enjoy God’s presence. Let Him lead your life. Light up the room when you enter. Encourage others. Spread the good news that there is hope. Leave them wondering what is going on inside you!
Father, I thank you that you abide with us. I thank you that You are near and care for us. It is comforting to know that we are Yours and You are close. Help us to share the Kingdom and Your love with those we meet. In Your name we pray.