Politics and Kingdoms
Over a Starbucks last week a friend and I were lamenting American politics today, how it consumes more and more of our national attention and media. Sadly these discussions divide not only the country but believers as well. No matter your personal bent or your personal loyalties, I think you would agree with me that we too often end up with more far more “heat than light.
Over a Starbucks last week a friend and I were lamenting American politics today, how it consumes more and more of our national attention and media. Sadly these discussions divide not only the country but believers as well. No matter your personal bent or your personal loyalties, I think you would agree with me that we too often end up with more far more “heat than light.
We agreed we were better advised to invest our energies and passion in pursuing Jesus. Particularly heeding His words concerning practical issues of daily life, “So then, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34. Good advice when our blood pressure starts rising and pundits seek higher ratings by sensationalizing difficult issues
But where to invest all that extra energy recaptured from partisan battles. The verse preceding that good advice regarding worry, indeed the very reason we need not worry, states “But above all pursue His kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33. We have a kingdom built on unity and purposes for Him that unite us. His kingdom promises a guaranteed future and built upon the character and purposes of God. Pursuing God’s purposes and seeking to live lives that reflect righteousness are passions worthy of each of us.
All the while reminding ourselves of those wonderful words of Revelation 11:15 which we sing from The Messiah, the promise for the future when
“The kingdoms of this world, have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ and He shall reign forever and ever.” Better investment for our passion.
Gwynne Johnson
Gwynne Johnson currently serves on the Board of Entrust, Inc., an international education and training mission where she authored the Entrust curriculum, Developing a Discerning Heart. She recently served as Co-Chair of the training project, Christian Women in Partnership, Russia and as Senior Director of Women's Ministry at Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas. Gwynne has a M.A. in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary. She currently lives in Huntsville, Texas with her husband of 58 years, Don. She works part-time in her daughter and granddaughter's bakery "The Best Box Ever," where she gets paid in cookies.
One Comment
Dianne
You’re right. Pursing God’s
You’re right. Pursing God’s Purposes in the Kingdom will always unite us in our differences and show how “unimportant” those differences really make in eternity. Good words.