The Kingdom Has Come Near
Rick Maupin of Lee’s Summit, MO, USA
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” -Mark 1:14-15
More than once on very long airline flights, after reading and giving up on trying to sleep, I have clicked on the small screen in front of me and scrolled through the movie selections.
I typically never go beyond the action/adventure option. I seldom am interested in a movie that spends a lot of time developing characters or takes viewers through a lot of back stories. I want a movie with action that moves quickly from scene to scene and keeps me drawn to the tale.
If the book of Mark were in the movie selections, I think it would land in the action/adventure genre. The text for today is a good example of a fast-paced adventure story: John is arrested. Jesus declares the kingdom of God has come near. Jesus invites four local fishermen to drop their nets and follow him, and immediately they do so. All of this action in only seven verses! Now that is a “movie” that keeps my attention with immediacy and urgency in nearly every scene.
When the credits of the movie in that seat-back screen begin scrolling, I click them off, because for the previous 120 minutes I have been drawn in, but not personally connected. But what about the “screens” of our world and communities that are filled with scenes of hatred, injustice, and violence? Are we personally connecting, dropping our nets, and following Jesus into those scenes? The call is urgent and immediate for us to participate in the action/adventure of working to establish the peaceable kingdom of which Jesus spoke.
Prayer Phrase
“Light dawns on a weary world.” CCS 240
Spiritual Practice
The Light of God
Epiphany invites us to focus on the light of God. Close your eyes and draw your attention to your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light and it lives in you.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
