PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 10

What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?

“The kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Matthew 10:7)
This is the gospel, the good news of the kingdom (Mark 1:14-15).
Is this how I understand the gospel?
Why do we focus more on Jesus dying, and our forgiveness?
Do I believe that the kingdom of God has come near?
To be near means it is among us, here on earth, with us.
Jesus is the kingdom near, God’s authorized ruler of creation.
Yet Rome was still in charge, and the religious leaders too.
Both together arrested, tortured and crucified this king.
Jesus does rule, but not in a worldly way (Matthew 20:25-28).
God’s kingdom operates through compassion, grace, mercy.
God brings peace not violence, overcoming evil with good.
Jesus shows how love is stronger than hate, and changes the world.
The kingdom is still near when we join with Jesus as agents of peace.
This may seem weak, but it is God’s way, and will win in the end.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, you are commissioning us to continue what you began, a revolution of compassion, grace and mercy. Increase my confidence in the power of your love!