Today marks the last Sunday before the end of the church's year.The last Sunday before Advent, commonly known as Christ the King Sunday, accentuates the triumphal reigning of Christ as a king through his crucifixion and gives us a glimpse of its glory we will be part of , once the world is consummated. As a young Christian, everyday I face a challenge of how to lead a life in two kingdoms simultaneously which has different set of values and expectations from me.
We all get caught up in the worries of this world, wanting have more things, to be more successful, have more money, have status in the society, continue to accumulate wealth by working hard to provide for our family, and attain a sense of security. The rules of this world are easily taught to us, perhaps are the most familiar, since all we have known is our life on earth. But, what about the rules of the heavenly kingdom? We know a little bit about that too. From our childhood, we are taught to be nice to others, love and serve our communities and friends, not be mean to someone in return who has been mean to us, go to church every Sunday, pay attention to the Scriptures, be involved in different ministries that fit our gifts, respecting our mother and father, be honest, and etc...
Understanding rules is part of our human nature, and that is how we learn how to behave and belong to a group of people who share the same values. The hardship lies on practicing the rules of the heavenly kingdom on the earthly one day after day, not thinking more highly of our selves than we should because of our accomplishments, and continue to be peacemakers among all peoples to bring the presence of Christ to the world. That is where the interconnection of the both kingdoms happen.
Because of our continuing life in the heavenly kingdom, we can become an instrument of peace, humility, and meekness in the earthly kingdom. Our daily challenge is the keep the faith alive at times that seems most impossible, and have the hope that "... neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39
As we prepare for the season of Advent, let us remember the love of God is the true comforter that can empower us live in balance with the both kingdoms but more importantly reminds us that we are one season closer to his eternal kingdom where we will be with him forever.
Ezgi.
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